Substantial Tree Stress - Ask Extension
I'm seeing a high degree of fast developing tree stress across multiple species, which include my Swamp White Oak, Dogwood, Black Gum, Ornamental Holl...
Knowledgebase
Substantial Tree Stress #930683
Asked May 05, 2026, 12:37 PM EDT
I'm seeing a high degree of fast developing tree stress across multiple species, which include my Swamp White Oak, Dogwood, Black Gum, Ornamental Holly, Persimmon, Red Bud, Crape Myrtle, Japanese (Red) Maple, and Rhododendron. The symptoms include leaf curl, browning and total leaf desiccation across all of the plants in varying degrees. The Crape Myrtle and Dogwood also show a lack (noticeable shortfall) of leaf and bloom appearance. I do not use any herbicides, but my neighbors do. I can send other pictures if needed.
Any treatment options and diagnosis would be appreciated. Thank you for your assistance.
Howard County Maryland
Expert Response
This is all from frost/freeze damage. Most of Maryland has hit recently with low temperatures that damaged many of our landscape plants. Healthy plants will recover and put out new leaves but it can take a few weeks. We have seen certain species like Crapemyrtle and Japanese Maples hit very hard from this. The affected leaves will eventaully wither, dry up, and fall off.
In the meantime monitor for watering needs since the plants will need ample root moisture to produce new growth and we have in a sustained drought throughout Maryland due to insufficient rian fall since 2024.
Emily
