Hi Nikole,

Thank you so much for reaching out to the UNH Extension Yard & Garden Infoline regarding your beech trees.

We have received several inquiries regarding beech tree issues throughout the state. I'm so sorry to hear that you're also seeing BLD on your property!

As we have shared with other clients, a disease--Beech Leaf Disease (BLD)--is a serious and emerging threat to beech trees. This disease, first identified in Ohio in 2012, is caused by the nematode, Litylenchus crenatae, and leads to dark, banded interveinal leaf striping, leaf curling, and a thickened leaf texture. BLD can significantly impact the health of beech trees, causing severe defoliation and tree mortality over time.

For additional information about this disease, please check the following references:

Potential Impacts of Beech Leaf Disease

Beech Leaf Disease Fact Sheet

What to Know about Beech Leaf Disease (7/25)

To report a suspected case of beech leaf disease, please use the NHBugs reporting form.

To assess the overall health of your beech trees including deciding if an injectable treatment is right for your situation, we recommend reaching out to a NH certified arborist: NHAA List of Certified Arborists. An arborist can come to your property to assess the health of your trees and work with you on options and to develop a plan for your specific situation.

An injectable treatment of thiabendazole has been approved for treatment of beech leaf disease in New Hampshire. This chemical is an antifungal and nematocidal treatment that has proven to be effective in reducing tree death and decline.

We are not certified arborists through the Infoline and we cannot provide any additional recommendations that are not yet proven by reputable resources. I would speak to an arborist directly with your concerns to see what other solutions may be available. 

We hope this information is helpful. Best of luck with your trees!