LoveToKnow Garden:AllComments

From LoveToKnow Garden

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Hi,

I live in South Australia and last March (Autumn) we planted a young October Glory Maple. It is now October (spring) and there are no leaves. There are buds but no sign of leaves. It was lovely when we planted it and full of healthy green leaves. So....

1. Should there be leaves by now? 2. How can we tell if it is dead?

-- Contributed by: Debbie

This sounds very much like fungal leaf spot. It is usually caused if you've had a period of wet, cool weather. It shouldn't be a problem other than not looking very nice.

I would suggest you take a sample in to your local Extension Office for proper identification, however. It could be something else. It's hard for me to diagnose trees when I can't see them. I don't know them quite as well as other plants. (Something I need to work on)

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

My maple trees in the spring have little round red beads on the leaves. Later in the summer there are black spots on the leaves. Can you diagnose this & should I be concerned about a cure? Thanks for your help.

-- Contributed by: B. James

I think it would be in your best in your best interest to have the tree removed. If it fell on your house you could have serious, costly damage as well as injury if you are in the wrong place at the wrong time.

I suggest that you consult a professional arborist. If you cannot find one in your phone book, try calling your local extension office for recommendations.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

Hello, i have many big leaf maple trees that are very old, one fell over last year, it was totally rotten inside. and now the trees branch leaves are turning brown from the top down. my concern is the trees might fall on the house or on the power lines by the road, Question? should i cut the trees down, thank you.

-- Contributed by: w.coyote

This could be Verticillium Wilt. You should contact your local extension office for an accurate diagnosis.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

We have an October Glory maple tree that started with leaves dying on the top of the tree this spring. It is now completely dead. A Norway maple is starting to show the same thinning of leaves at the top. We don't know what could cause this. In cutting through the bark I noticed tiny holes in the back side of the bark sample and the tree trunk under the spot is black and damp. Any help would be apprecited as we have many maples on our lawn. Thank you. Dennis

-- Contributed by: Dennis Cradduck

It is possible that this is a a frost crack that began during winter weather. You really can't do anything about it other than spray with an insecticide to prevent insects from entering the tree through the opening. The crack itself will not hurt your tree.

Another possibility is sun scale if the crack is on the west or south side of the tree. This is caused when frozen trees thaw on a sunny day and then re-freeze at night.

Again, you should spray with insecticide. Also consider adding a good, balance fertilizer to help the tree get strong and healthy to fend off possible insect or fungal infections.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

Large 18" vertical split exposing wood suddenly appeared. plumage appears healthy.

-- Contributed by: red sunset maple 25 yrs old

This may be some sort of maple tree decline, which is more of a syndrome than a disease. Since this is widespread throughout your neighborhood, it could be due to recent weather (such as really hot or cold weather) or poor soil.

I suggest you contact your local Extension Office. If this is a disease that is spreading, they will want to know about it. If not, they will at least be able to tell you what the problem is and how to remedy it.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

In out neighborhood outside Pittsburgh Pa, leaves on a maple are dying off on just the very thin ends of branches. I prune them off as notices but more keep losing thier leaves and dying. I noticed many maples in the neighborhood are similarly affected and some have lost all leaves on branch tips and only have leaves toward the center. What could be causing this?

-- Contributed by: ron Heil

Cathy,

I suspect that this tree has a problem with scales or aphids. They feed on the tree's sap and then secrete dropping that are sticky and messy.

You'll need to check the leaves and branches to determine what the problem is. Aphids will be seen on the leaves, though they are tiny. Scale is on the branches and they do not move. They are glued to the bark.

Once you determine what you have, you can visit your local garden center to determine what type of insecticide you need to combat the problem.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

There is a well established maple tree in our neighbour's yard that, last week, had an episode of "spitting" sap on everything within it's tree line. Is this a sign of distress?

-- Contributed by: Cathy from Ontario, Canada

Gwen,

These spikes are caused by the gall mites. You can read more about them at the Ohio State University Extension site.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

Doreen,

The insects commonly found on a Norway Maple include aphids, tent caterpillars, cankerworms, leafrollers, spindlegall mites, bladdergall mites and eriophyid mites.

Your best bet is to take a sample sealed in a small jar or zipper bad and take it to your local extension office for identification. They should be able to tell you what to do.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

Geri,

This may be Nactria Canker. Visit Oregon State Extension Service's Plant Disease Control page for more information.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

I have a sugar maple tree. On the leaves there are spike looking growths, sticking straight up, only on the top side of the leaf. Nothing on the bottom. The leaves look and feel healthy, firmly attached to the twigs. Imagine an upside down hair brush. Can you tell me what this is and what I can do about it? Thank you

-- Contributed by: Gwen Nelson

We have a large Norway Maple which is dropping its leaves. The leaves that have dropped are sticky, but we noticed that there are longish black bugs and eggs (I think) on the leaves that are still on the tree. Any advice?

-- Contributed by: doreen gilmour

I recently removed the dead branches of a beloved japanese maple leaving only two short leafy sprigs out from the trunk. I discovered a briht orange ick on the base of the trunk, and spots of the same up the tree.

I have not been able to discover this "ick" identity. It looks as if it is a fungus. the color is neon orange.

Any thing you tell would be appreciated.

-- Contributed by: Geri Rister

Donna,

This is hard to answer without seeing the tree and getting more details. You should probably call your local extension office or call an arborist in your area. They can take an in-person look at your tree and tell you what to do.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

Tar Spot is fairly common on maple trees. While it looks unsightly, it does not usually cause long term damage.

To control it, rake and destroy fallen leaves, either by burning or composting. If the infection is very severe, you can call a professional to spray with a fungicide, but this will only minimize the problem, not eliminate it completely.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

Avis, Shriveled leaves can be caused by several things. Drought, squirrels or aphids can cause this problem. It is also possible that your tree has been damaged by the Maple Petiole Borer. This is something that will clear up on it's own, so you don't need to worry. While it looks distressing, the trees should do just fine.

If you are still concerned, try calling your local extension office or an arborist in your area to take a look. It is difficult for me to diagnose trees without seeing them. An expert on trees can look at the problem and tell you what to do.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

My maple leaves are spotted up, almost like tar. They are also shrivelled up and fall off prematurely. This is a massive tree, providing lots of shade in the summer. I'd hate to lose it. Any ideas?? Thanks

-- Contributed by: tar spots

Both of my maples have leaves that are shrivled and dry as if dying. The young tree has the entire top 50% dry. It is the main trunk of the tree that goes to the top of the tree that the leaves are all brown, dried and curled about 50% of the way up. The restof the tree is leaved out. The larger tree has the same thing. Worse on the south side, but I see today that variou smalll leaves and twiglets on the rest of the tree are doing the same thing. I am sick! what is wrong and what do I do. I truly appreciate any advice from anyone. We wait so lomg fpr a decent tree and this happens. I must add that the smaller tree has has deer rub done to it. the branch most affected tho,rub done to the cream colored skin, is full of green leaves. The trunk bark doesn't seem to be brokken open. I would like to think who ever will read this comment. god bless.

-- Contributed by: avis heithoff

my tree is a mature maple that suddenly looks dead. No buds, or leaves. On several areas on bark there are round circles.

-- Contributed by: Donna Mills

I have a maple tree where the leaves are having red "balls" on them. I have tried looking up maple tree diseases but I am not having any luck. Could you please help me??

-- Contributed by: Kristin

Have a large sugar maple in our front yard about 19 feet from our residential street. Parts of it looked a little sick going into the fall, and this spring it has not leafed out at all,although the twigs have buds. Twigs are for the most part dry. Trying to figure out if we are looking at root girdling, chemical damage (we have a lawn service)or salt damage, or disease. Can the tree be saved? Can you help?

-- Contributed by: Frank

This is most likely lichens and is nothing to worry about. It is an organism that lives on your tree but does not hurt it.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

Hi, I have a maple tree and I have noticed this spring that the trunk of the tree has white spots in several areas of the trunk. Is this of concern? Thanks.

-- Contributed by: Tina

Don and Susan, it is best if you contact an arborist or your local Extension Office to have someone look at your trees. It is difficult to determine the problem without seeing it.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

I have a 10-year old beautiful red maple that I notice the trunk is beginning to turn white from the ground yo, and one side of the trunk now has a rather long crack. The branches look fine and have lots of helicopters.

-- Contributed by: Susan K

I have a golden maple tree in my front yard that is dying. The bark is falling off and the leaves on some limbs are none existant or very poorly developed. We live in Texas were it gets hot but it is already starting and its not hot yet. Help

-- Contributed by: Don Ezell

This is hard to answer without seeing if there is any other kind of damage to the tree. Is the bark falling off. Is the tree healthy otherwise?

It is possible that this is just lichens on your tree or it could be just a normal part of the bark structure. You can see some lichen pictures to see if this is what is on your tree. I suspect that this is most likely your problem.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

My Acer tree has white spots all over the trunk this year and I have no idea why, or what it is, can anyone help on this, I have had it for 10 yaers and love the Crimson colour it brings into my garden in Autumn the buds seem to be OK

-- Contributed by: Margaret Carruthers

Japanese maples can be rather touchy at times and are susceptible to several problems. The problem you describe could be caused by a period of drought or even some type of fungus, but I can't say for sure.

I would suggest pruning off the dead branches. Be sure to disinfect your pruner between each cut to prevent passing any potential disease from branch to branch (as well as to other plants). To do this, rinse the blades with a mixture of 10 percent bleach and water.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

I have a japanese maple that has dead, dry and brittle twigs and small brantches any ideas?

-- Contributed by: bill

Hi Bob,

My first thought was that perhaps you actually have a sugar maple. It is typical for the bottom of the tree to develop burnt-looking bark that curls away from the wood.

It is possible that your tree has a fungal infection as well. Without knowing your location or seeing the tree, I would suggest you contact your local Extension Service. They should have someone who can look at your tree and tell you exactly what the problem is.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

I have a mature red maple tht began to turn dark, almost black in the bark starting at the bottom and working its way up over the past few years. The bark is pealing back and coming loose. I believe that whatever it is came with mulch that I put in a few years ago. Any identication and solution?

-- Contributed by: Bob

Hi Joe, There are several reasons this could be occurring - first, are there any holes where the sap is leaking from? Sometimes birds pecking at your tree can cause this condition. Second, is there any sawdust around the base of the tree? You didn't mention where you live, but the Asian Long-Horned beetle can cause this type of damage. If neither of these scenarios match your tree, please contact your local Cooperative Extension office and request to speak with a master gardener for assistance.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Chris, There are several things that could be causing this problem. First, some trees are shocked when they are transplanted, so this could be the number one problem. Second - too much fertilizer may - cut back on the amount of fertilizer you're feeding this tree. Third, sun-scald could be the cause of these burnt-looking leaves. This is caused by high temperature and low humidity. I'm guessing that with proper care your tree should rebound and be just fine. Keep the tree moist and don't let it dry out completely for the first month after the transplant.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

I have a 1 year old Maple tree planted in sandy soil in Florida. The leaves are all brown (not falling off) But it started to do this right after I planted it. What seems to be the problem?

-- Contributed by: Chris

I have a 10 yr. old silver maple approx 35-40 ft tall and about 8-9 inches in diameter at the base and I am seeing this maple sap seep all around the base of the tree and slowely its weeping is moving up the tree and is about 3 feet off the ground now. It appears to sweat beeds all the way around, which stains the tree below this sweat line as the line slowely week by week moves higher. Any ideas?

-- Contributed by: Joe Brewer

Hi Mrs. Place, Your trees may have verticillium wilt. This requires some lab tests. I would advise contacting your local Cooperative Extension office or a nurseryman to come look at your trees for a correct diagnosis.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

I have a 6 year old siver maple, approx 35 ft height and diameter is about 8" at the base. The tree has developed a crack in the bark from ground level up about 1 1/2 ft. and the bark has peeled away 4" wide at the bottom of the crack to a inverted V at the top. The tree was planted in top soil on top of fill dirt and the area is fairly wet except in periods of drought, which is now occurring in the Asheville, NC area. No insects are apparent and the tree is fed with a 10/10/10 fertilizer every spring. Do you have any idea what would cause this crack and what can be done to prevent further damage to the tree ? Should a tree sealer be applied to the exposed area ? Thanks for your help

-- Contributed by: Harry Bird

I have three different variety maples in duress. The largest is a "swamp maple" in the front yard. It has a wide black streak running from the base of the tree to where the limbs fork w/ one large limb dead and mushrooms/fungi growing out of its deadened limb and branches. The other larger maple is leaning toward our house so it is of particular concern to us. It too has the black streak with a crack running up to the forked limbs with some branches at the crown dead. The third maple is ornamental Japanese and small, just planted two years ago but not doing well. The leaves have pin holes in them and are dead along the edges. Do any of these conditions sound like a disease/parasite and are these trees in danger of dying? Since we have many trees that are not infected, I am concerned it might be a condition that could spread to them through insects. Thank you for your reply.

-- Contributed by: Mrs. Place

Hi Christine, Your tree may have two problems, separately or together. Too much fertilizer may cause this problem, so you may want to cut back on the amount of fertilizer you're feeding this tree. Second, sun-scald could be the cause of these burnt-looking leaves. This is caused by high temperature and low humidity. Not much can be done when sun-scald occurs, but your tree should rebound from this type of damage.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

My maple tree is about 5 1/2 yrs old, grew from a seed. From the very begining it has always had leaves the look like they have been burned from to much sun. I keep trying fertilizers and keep the area very clean thinking that I may have to cut it. Would an electric line be causing this? The reason I ask is that is very close to one and I am hoping that once it grows past the height of the line it will get better or should I just remove it. Now would be the best time before it grows much bigger. Thanks C

-- Contributed by: Christine

Hi Carol, If the leaves looked chewed, it is possible there is some kind of insect infestation (oon where you live to determine what bugs in your area). Dead seed pods would be falling this time of year, so that may have nothing to do with an infestation. Your best bet is to take clear digital photos of the problem and send or take them directly to a local Cooperative Extension office for identification of the problem.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Bruce, I'm only guessing, since I can't see what the fungus looks like. I believe it is lichens which won't hurt your tree. They can be scrubbed off with a soft-bristled brush or sponge, but they don't have to be removed for the health of the tree.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

forgot to mention: in addition to clusters of leaves dropping from my sugar maple, there are thousands of dead seed pods falling constantly. Can anyone help?

-- Contributed by: carol

Our maple is shedding small clusters of leaves, beginning at the top, which is now bare. (They look almost as if they were chewed off.) Is this a fungus? Can't seem to get tree pros to come down this busy season.

-- Contributed by: carol

Bark has form of a greenish fungus on part of the trunk, what is this and how should it be treated?

-- Contributed by: bruce krause

Our front yard maple is 14 years old. There are sections of the tree that show the wilting. I took a leaf to our local gardening store and they suggested I do a deep root fertilization around the perimeter of the tree that was high in nitrogen. Is there anything else I can do to save the tree? Thank you in advance for your comments.

-- Contributed by: Kelly

2 of 3 maples on the front lawn have what looks like ink or dirty motor oil running down the trunks, both starting only 1 ft off the ground. trees are only 4 yo and 8 - 12 ft. otherwise normal. anything to worry about?

-- Contributed by: paula

Hi Mary, I'm not really sure how old your tree is since the comment you wrote seems to be in error. If it is 10 years old, the rough scaly bark or "potato chip" bark is normal and there is nothing that you need to do. In a younger tree, I would look for evidence of pests that could be causing the trouble, such as deer that like to nibble on the bark and tops of young trees. I wouldn't fertilize the tree this late in the season- it would benefit more from fertilization in the spring time.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Laphelia, Your tree sounds like it is in serious trouble. I recommend contacting your local Cooperative Extension agent for assistance. They will probably need to take some bark or core samples from your tree to identify what is causing these problems.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Diane, I'm not sure what kind of maple tree you have, but this is normal in red maples. Check out the following site for pictures of these circle patterns: Red Maple Tree- concentric circles.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

My loo year old sugar Maple is shedding its bark. I just had the roots feed and am waiting for fertilization. How can I help?

-- Contributed by: Mary g. Pellegrino

We're in north Texas and have a 35+ yr old silverleaf maple that has been losing several larger limbs over the past year. Now we've noticed on the north side of the base of the tree, the roots have deteriated to almost sawdust consistency and the soil sinks when stepped on. Also there are large (1" - 2") black oval patches on the bark with pin-holes in them, mainly on the north side trunk and some higher limbs. The tree and leaves seem healthy on the south side; although the height of the tree seems sporadic - tall limbs with leaves only at the ends. We would like to save the tree if we can with just some treatment and trimming of the damaged parts. Any suggestions would be appretiated.

-- Contributed by: Laphelia

We have two large well established maple trees on our property whigh are showing medium sized white ringed circles on the bark of the trunk and branches. Anything to be concerned about. thank you

-- Contributed by: diane

Hi Todd, If I read this correctly, the tree has a 1 ft high by four inch wide area without bark, and the injury is 1 inch deep? This is on a tree that is only 4 inches in diameter? I'd be very concerned - without seeing this tree it sounds like it sustained a serious injury that may kill it. The green mold may only be lichens - this is normal for a maple tree to have this. However, please call your local Cooperative Extension and ask them to take a look at your tree in person, or take a very good photo and send it to them right away. I think this needs to be taken care of immediately.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Chris, I think you've already decided on the right course of action for determining what is going on with your tree. My advice would have been the same - have a nursery person or Cooperative Extension agent look at the tree's problems.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Our 2-4 year old maple tree has a green mold on the bark and the bark is coming loose from the tree. At the base, the tree has a 1 ft x 4 inch x 1 inch hole on the side of the tree. The base of the tree is about 4 inches in Diameter. Leaves look very heathly and the tree is protected at the base but all the bark is gone...What do you think is happening? thanks, Todd

-- Contributed by: Todd

We just noticed the maple tree has furrows going up the trunk and on a couple of branches and the leaves are covered with green lumpy yellow things and the leaves are pitted and have holes in them can you tell me what this could be? we are going to take pictures and leaf samples to a nursery tomorrow

-- Contributed by: Chris Gerulat

Hi Curtis, I suggest you contact your local Cooperative Extension office and request that they visit your tree to make a correct diagnosis and suggest a treatment plan if possible.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Yes, Sheri and Ken - it sounds like you are describing leaf gall. This condition will not kill your tree. It is carried over in the dead leaves each fall. You can dispose of the leaves each fall, but this can be difficult if you live in a neighborhood with a lot of maple trees.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Rodeo Jim, It sounds like your tree has leaf scorch. It can be treated by deep watering during dry periods. This rarely will cause the death of a tree.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Mary, There are many things that can cause yellowing leaves on the maple - in urban areas it can be due to things such as nutrient deficiencies, the soil used on top of the tree to cover the roots, soil compaction and paving near the tree and salt damage from the winter.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Emily and Marilyn, without knowing what type of maple you have, I'm really just guessing what the cause is. The problems you list could be normal if these are silver maples; this could also be a problem caused by too much water in your area - perhaps flooding? For a correct diagnosis I suggest you contact your local Cooperative Extension office - they would be happy to help you.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

A new park was planted near me a year ago. The trees (most are maple) are loosing their bark and the trunk of the trees displays damage. There are a sort of open wound about half way up the trees.

-- Contributed by: marilyn

Our street has multiple maple trees - about 7-10 years old. There are two trees (next to each other) whose leaves have been a yellowish color all season. I believe they were last year, also. Now the tree in front of my house is getting yellow areas. The leaves look ok - not wilty, but they are yellow! Some trees are unaffected and have nice dark green leaves. Any ideas?

-- Contributed by: Mary

My maple tree is loosing its branches, leaves, and bark.

-- Contributed by: Emily

my maple tree has black and red bumps on the leaves

-- Contributed by: yes

My maple tree has started showing growth like sopts on it and these growths are stuck onto the leaves? I have no idea what it is can anyone help?

-- Contributed by: sheri

My Maple tree has browning in the middle of the leaves...and it has spread to all the leaves. After reading about the different diseases, it sounds like my beloved Maple has Maple Wilt. Is there nothing I can do at this point in time? Am I going to lose my tree?

-- Contributed by: Curtis

I have 2 maple trees with leaves that have several 1/4" spines sticking out. I need help identifying the problem.

-- Contributed by: Ken

I just planted a red japanese maple tree earlier this summer. I just noted that the leaves have lacy holes. Last year we had to have a tree cut down that has the same problem. Does any one know what it could be and what we can do?

-- Contributed by: Linda

I have several maple trees in a wooded area that are dying. The bark is turning black and the branches are knarled with only a few leaves. I have noticed that some of the trees are peppered with tiny holes. I need help.

-- Contributed by: Tom

my maple looks like its been thru a fire. the edges of the leaves are burnt. what's up?

-- Contributed by: rodeojim

Hi MV, If the yellowing and browning is only around the edges of the leaves and possibly between the veins, it is most likely the tree isn't getting enough water. Try deep watering the plant when there isn't significant rainfall; it should help your tree survive through August.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

I have two October Sunset Maples and the leaves have turned yellow around the edges. It is just August and this seems quite premature. Thanks for any help.

-- Contributed by: MV

about half The leaves on my Maple are covered with half inch tall growths. Some leaves are covered while others have ten or twenty, They look like small stems, but are growing out of the top of the leaves. the tree is also loosing about a hundred leaves a day. the tree is fourty years old and quite large.

-- Contributed by: maple growths

My sugar maple which is about 22 years old has started to have a lot of black bark on the trunk. The leaves and the limbs look pretty normal. Is there a problem. The other maple in the yard has dark bark but not like this.

-- Contributed by: Patricia Scott

Hi Andrea and Harris, you didn't mention what kind of maple tree you have. Of course, without seeing the trees, I can only guess what is causing the problems. The trees may have a wood rotting fungus , which is the moldy looking stuff. The trees the two of you mention may have Verticillium Wilt. I advise calling an arborist or local nurseryman to inspect the trees. You may need them to inject your tree with Fungisol fungicide and correctly prune any affected branches to stop the spread of the problem and avoid total tree death.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

My maple tree is losing large chunks of bark from its base up to about 2 feet from the ground. When the bark comes off, I can see what looks like fine roots taking up some of the space between the bark and the inner parts of the tree. Any ideas what this is?

-- Contributed by: harris

My friends maple trees have this moldy looking stuff on the trunks and the bark is cracking off. What is it and what can be done to save the tree?

-- Contributed by: Andrea Brand

Hi BSquaires, Is your tree an older tree? This condition, sometimes called "potato chip bark" is a natural condition. Usually it can be spotted near the tops of the trunks, and sometimes these irregular plates curl at the edges. If this is the case, there is nothing you need to do; it is normal.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Julie, If your positive it isn't lichens, then I would advise you contact your local Cooperative Extension office to take a look at your tree to determine what it is. You could also talk to a local nursery and perhaps share a digital photo of the problem.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Bob, Sounds like your tree has Tar Spot. It will not kill your tree. It is a fungus that winters over on the tree and usually appears in warm and moist conditions. You don't have to treat the tree, but if you decide to do this use a product containing mancozeb or triadimefon.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

My maple tree has lost some of it's bark amd the wood underneath is showing and occasionaly chips out . Why is this happening ?

-- Contributed by: BSquaires

I have a sugar maple that has developed white spots on the bark. It is NOT lichen, it looks it is part of the bark not a growth on it. The bark looks like it is discolored. The white is in circles about 1/2 inch to 1 1/2 inches in diameter. I assume it is some sort of fungus but is it something that will damage my tree?

-- Contributed by: Julie Locke

I have a three year old maple which has developed many small black spots on it's leaves. At first I thought it was soot or smoke discoloring caused by fires in the local area (we get smoke from a forest fire approx 20 miles away occasionaly). Tried to see if it would come off with water but it appears to be in the leave itself. Doesn't look like a Tar Spot as these are very small black spots. Other then that the tree appears healthy with new growth still prevelent. Is this a disease? Any suggestions?

Thanks

-- Contributed by: Bob Paxson

Hi Ann, I think you are talking about leaf gall, which can be small raised spots on the leaves or even small spindle-like protrusions. It isn't necessary to remove each and everyone of these from the leaves. Landscapers generally don't bother treating the trees with anything since the galls don't harm the trees.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

I have a very small maple tree that for the past three years has had a red blight on the leaves. The tree is as small as it is because the blight seems to have stunted it's growth. When I first saw it I thought it was aphids. It is red bumps that appear to be insects that appear on the top side of the leaf. However, it is not insects. They do not move. They are somewhat sticky and difficult to remove. Most of the leaves that I have removed it from are damaged from the removal.

Any ideas about how I can resolve this problem? Thanks for your help.

-- Contributed by: Ann L Everett

Hi Mary and Lisa- Your tree may have Maple Wilt (please see description in the beginning of the above article). It is difficult to diagnose without actually seeing the affected tree. I would advise you to contact your local Cooperative Extension office to correctly diagnose this problem, as a sample of the bark will be required.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

We are experiencing the exact same issue as "Robert", with our Maple tree - with an unusually cold spring, and some wet weather. Is there a fix for this?

-- Contributed by: Lisa

Hi Ed, This could be sunscald in a young tree or possibly maple wilt. Contact your Cooperative Extension to make a definite identification. For maple wilt, a bark sample will be required for proper identification.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Tracey, I would advise you to contact your local Cooperative Extension office to see if they can identify what the source of the spots are. I am not aware of any type of fungus that could cause this on a maple.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Durkee, Did leaves ever appear on these branches? If not, they may have died. This past year was very tough on plants, especially if you live in an area that had late frosts in the spring. If the rest of the tree seems to be doing well, you can prune the branches that have died.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

We seem to have the same problem as Robert. Our maple trees all have the leaves getting black and curling up. We have also had an over abundance of the "helicopters" this year. Many of the leaves are falling off, leaving just the helicopters. Help!

-- Contributed by: Mary K

i transplanted a small red maple in my yard. there are browning tips an some of the leaves. can this be maple wilt or something else? any information you can give would be helpfull.

-- Contributed by: ed

i have a maple tree that's bark is "black" and it has "white" round circles on the bark. they are about 4 - 5" inches in diameter.

-- Contributed by: tracy pride

My 35 year old sugar maple has several branches with buds that did not bloom and the branches appear to have died . The tree appears healthy aside from the dozen or so branches. The most affected area is the tips of lower branches.

-- Contributed by: j Durkee

Hi Robert, Your tree may have Maple Wilt (please see description in the beginning of the above article. It is difficult to diagnose without actually seeing the affected tree. I would advise you to contact your local Cooperative Extension office to correctly diagnose this problem, as a sample of the bark will be required.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Nancie, I think you have Maple Galls. Please check out the following link to see if the photos represent the problem you are seeing: Maple Galls. In some states these trees can be sprayed with Sevin or other similar pesticides to get rid of the mites, but it isn't necessary. This condition is normal in maple trees and will not kill the tree.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Jeannie, This past winter was hard on maple trees all over the U.S. primarily because it was warm and then we had sudden freezes (in many areas, well into late spring). This can cause splits in the trunks and branches of a tree, even young ones.

It is recommended that you don't paint the cracks with tar or other tree paint. Instead, clean the wound by carefully scraping the edges of the wound, removing as little of the tree as possible. Be sure to use clean tools that have been disinfected prior to use. Don't remove more than 1 inch of the bark surrounding the wound. An otherwise healthy tree should quickly callus over the wound.

I'm not sure what type of fungus you have without seeing it. I would advise you to contact your local Cooperative Extension office to see if they could identify the fungus on your tree.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi e. long, I believe you are describing Maple Galls. I've included a link to a website with photos of this: Maple Galls. If this is what your tree has, they will not affect the health of your tree. In some states these trees can be sprayed with Sevin or other similar pesticides to get rid of the mites, but it isn't necessary. This condition is normal in maple trees and will not kill the tree.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

We have a maple that is about 15 years old. This spring,which has had an overabundance of rain, the leaves on the bottom branches are all edged in black, as though scorched looking, and curling, and after a bad wind sotorm yesterday, many leaves are dropping. What is causing this? It has never happened before and seem to affect a large part of the lower half of the tree.

-- Contributed by: Robert

I have a young tree in my back yard that has new growth and seems to be in good shape, but it has hard red circles on some of the leaves. Some leaves have more of these tiny bumps than others. Some are totally clear of any bumps. Do you know what this could be? And what can I do to make it go away? My neighbor's giant old maple seems to have TONS of these bumps on the leaves. They look like little brown or red warty things. Thanks for your help.

-- Contributed by: Nancie Slovenkay

Martha ask questions on this problem, "seed pods grew where leaves where by the thousands. many branches have no leaves at all and most leaves appear much smaller than normal."

My email previously omitted this same problem. I think my perfect shade tree is deathly sick this year.

-- Contributed by: Jeannie

Our maple tree (about 16 yrs old) has splits up the trunks and on the branches. It looked like it was good but we just didn't feel right about it. Today I was looking at it from an odd angle and it looks like the top leaves are dying and it is sparse looking. It is usually lush and full to the point you can't see through it. My brother said it has a fungus on the lower trunk. A couple years ago there was a pipe break and the roots might have been damaged. It is also along street, about 2 ft off the street.

I asked the township worker if he would look at it as he was cleaning the road and he said it could be a striped maple. Sorry but that doesn't sound right. Have never seen a younger maple split like this. Our home has 6 large atrium windows off the porch and we are worried the 3 large section will break apart in a storm. Most articles I have read are saying if it is diseased it will die a slow death. Should we "better be safe than sorry" and cut it down now?

-- Contributed by: Jeannie

I have a maple tree that recently i noticed the leaves were covered with little red things (almost like eggs) does anyone have any ideas of what this could be and what i could do to treat it...Thanks!

-- Contributed by: e.long

Hi Wilma, From your description, I think you are describing Maple Galls. I've included a link to a website with photos of this: Maple Galls. If this is what your tree has, they will not affect the health of your tree. In some states these trees can be sprayed with Sevin or other similar pesticides to get rid of the mites, but it isn't necessary.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Mary, there are several things that can cause the bark splitting on your tree. For many, the bark splitting is a result of quick temperature changes in late fall or early spring. These are known as frost cracks. They can also be caused by sun scald in the winter and fluctuating growth conditions. It is recommended that you don't paint the cracks with tar or other tree paint. Instead, clean the wound by carefully scraping the edges of the wound, removing as little of the tree as possible. Be sure to use clean tools that have been disinfected prior to use. Don't remove more than 1 inch of the bark surrounding the wound. An otherwise healthy tree should quickly callus over the wound.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Kim, You mention scale, so I'm wondering if it isn't Maple Scale. Follow the following link: Maple Scale for a description of this problem and photos. I would also advise contacting your local Cooperative Extension office to see if they can assist in identifying this problem if the photos from the link don't match the problem.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

The leaves of our maple tree look like they have warts: red, brown and greenish raised pimples on otherwise healthy-looking leaves. I can find no reference to it online. Can you help here?

-- Contributed by: Wilma Darlington

I have a maple that has bark splitting up the length of the tree. Now I see it starting on the tree next to it. Help

-- Contributed by: mary

Hi - I have a silver maple (about 10' tall) that was planted @ 3 years ago by a landscaper. After the first year, it started getting scales on the trunk and the leaves started getting little brown dots on them. It is now so bad that limbs are dying and the scaling is covering most of the trunk. I have looked on line and thought it might be anthrocnose, but that never mentions anything about the trunk being scaly. Do you have an idea of what it might be and what I can do (if anything) to save it?

Thank You - Kim

-- Contributed by: Kim DAvis

my maple tree has clusters of red bumps scattered over the leaves: what is it & how do I fix it?

-- Contributed by: Audie Gates

Hi Rob, You could use chlorothalonil or Captan to curb the fungus, but it needs to be sprayed on the leaves in early spring as the leaves are developing in order to be effective.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

I appear to have ANTHRACNOSE on only one of my mature 2 maple trees in front yard. My flowering crab apple tree seems to also have it as it blossoms well each spring but then has very small brownish leaves for rest of summer even thow I water it well. I also have an old pine or spruce tree that is dying in the yard with sap leaking and needles going brown almost over all tree and cones are fewer and small. The maple tree seems to get most of its new leaves in spring although a few less each year and then as summer comes the leaves turn colours early and fall off. More small branches on maple are dying and not showing leaves.MY QUESTION IS WOULD SPRAYING CAPTAN BY A LICENSED PERSON WORK TO CURB THIS FUNGUS????

-- Contributed by: Rob Whitfield

Hi Donna, Check out this website BioPix for a picture of Phlyctis argena, a lichen. If this is what is growing on your tree, you can either leave it alone (it won't harm your tree as it lives off of air), or remove it. Lichens can be removed in two ways: 1) use a soft brush and scrub the lichens from the tree or 2) cover the area with a soft cloth as the lack of sunlight will call the lichens to die.

As for the grubs, they usually aren't the cause of trees dying, but they usually will move in when the tree is rotting. Your tree may have heart rot or dry rot. Contact a local nurseryman or your cooperative extension agent to help you identify this type of fungus.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

I have an ornamental maple tree - with round white spots appearing all over the bark. The branches have definite signs of a problem - some branches have healthy spring growth with new shoots. A significant number of branches have definite dead portions of shoots/leaves. The previous owner of my property tells me there was a problem once with grubs in my soil (killing significant portion of the lawn) - and that appears to be happening again - but can they also endanger my tree?? Help - what should I do

-- Contributed by: Donna

Hi Rodger, Please check out the following website on maple leaf fungus types: Cornell University Maple Leaf Diseases. It may help you identify the type of fungus that is growing on the leaves of your tree. If not, drop me a line here again and I'll keep looking!

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Marge, Do the holes look like they have dried blood around them? If so this could be bleeding canker. The holes could also be the result of a borer insect. Contact your local cooperative extension agent to determine if there is a particular type of borer insect in your area. They could then recommend what type of chemical could be used to treat the affected trees (not all chemicals are available for use in all states).

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

Hi Brian, It is possible that there may be a borer insect causing the girdling of the tree branches. I would contact your local cooperative extension office to see which species may live in your area as well as which chemicals are allowed to be used in your state to treat any infestation.

-- Contributed by: Charlotte Gerber

We have a red maple that get what looks like black threads on the bottoms of its leaves and it drops a lot of the leaves as well. The whole back of the leaf is covered with these. they are attached at one end and are about 1/8 inch long.

Any idea

-- Contributed by: Rodger

I noticed pencil eraser size holes horizontally along the trunk of several large Maple trees with sap weeping cracks where the larger branches met the trunk. There were many flies in the cracks. The trees are located on Lake Erie South Bass Island Ohio. At first I thought it was a woodpecker but the holes are all the same size and smaller than woodpecker holes I've seen. Any ideas or help would be appreciated!! The trees have been previously healthy and the area had a wet long winter

-- Contributed by: Marge

I have a Tulip Maple in my backyard and just recently I have noticed that at least 2 decent sized branches (appr. 2-3" diameter) are loosing all of their bark and do not seem to be showing any signs of budding. I am sure that this is not normal and was wondering if someone might be able to help me figure out what the problem might be. It is 2 branches on the same side of the tree that are only about 1' apart from each other. Please help.

-- Contributed by: Brian Dentino

Matthew, I can't think of what would cause black spots on the trunk. Try contacting your local extension office or a certified arborist.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

some of my customers have maple trees with black fungis on the trunks can you tell me what this is.I heard it will kill the maples

-- Contributed by: matthew corcoran

It sounds like lichen possibly. As long as your tree seems healthy otherwise, I wouldn't be concerned with it. If you are still worried you can have an extension agent or arborist take a look at a sample.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

i have 2 big maple trees. One has green spots on branches that looks like fungi. it started w/ a branch, now other branches have it. the 2nd tree is fine except for some moss growth that started recently in the joint of a branch to the trunk. are both diseases or are they just a natural development of old trees?

-- Contributed by: cris

I am having a hard time figuring this one out Bob. Does your tree show any other symptoms? You may need to consult your extension office or a local arborist.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

I have a sugar maple in my backyard. From the patio door I can see what looks like a strip of red paint on it but on closer inspection is a large cluster of reddish brown growths or algae. Help.

-- Contributed by: Bob Burnett

we hava large maple that was here when we built our house 5 years ago, not sure how old it is but it is rather large. The last couple of years we have started to notice the main trunch seems to be hollowing and there are alot of dead branches, does anyone know what could be causing this and what we can do to save it?

-- Contributed by: wanda

Gene, I think your tree is suffering from tar spot. This is a fungal disease that doesn't really hurt your tree's health, but isn't very nice to look at either.

Your best method for combating this problem is to rake up and destroy the leaves as they fall from the tree. The fungi that cause this problem will overwinter in the fallen leaves and affect your tree again next year if the leaves are left on the ground.

Thanks for your question.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

John, it is hard for me to say exactly, but it may be sooty bark disease which is a fungal disease that will kill trees. I think you should check with an arborist or "tree doctor" to be on the safe side.

Sorry I couldn't be much help.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

I am not sure what kind of maple tree I have. The leaves have started to drop, however, I noticed a black sport the size of a quarter on the leaves. Should I worry that the tree is diseases.

Thank you.

-- Contributed by: Gene

I have a sugar maple with a trunk that has turned black and the leaves at the peak have died. What can i do??

-- Contributed by: John Nestor

Nigel, at this time it is not possible to post links in the comments section, so yes, that was likely the problem and I apologize for that. It is in order to keep spam at a minimum.:)

I'm sorry to say, you have me stumped about your maple. I think your best bet is to look in your phone book for a tree doctor (an arborist) or call your local extension office to have an expert take a look at your tree.

When you find out the problem, please post again and let me know. I am curious as to the answer.

Thank you for the question and sorry again that I am unable to help.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

Having problems with this site accepting my post so please forgive if this is a repost.

I recently moved to North Texas and have what I believe is a maple tree about 3-5 years old. The bark has black spots which I think may be tar spots but looks almost like spray paint and some of the leaves are dropping off. The dropped leaves are still green but Some of the more exposed leaves have brown tips.

I am concerned the problem is wilt but the tree looked very healthy 2 months ago when we moved in. This year there has been high rainfall but now the daily temp is around 100f. and the wind is hot.

The last time I posted i put a link to 3 pictures to show the problem but my post hasn't been published (I'm wondering if that was the problem)

I can post the link to the pictures (imageshack) if it will help in finding an answer.

Kind regards

Nigel Wren

-- Contributed by: Nigel

it is possible, but difficult to say without seeing the leaves.

It could possibly be anthracnos leaf blight which is a fungus characterized by leaves that turn brown along the veins. Occasionally you can see the spores of the fungus on the leaves as well.

It could also be maple decline which can be brought on by drought, insects or root damage.

Really your best bet is to call a tree expert in your area to take a look. You can try your county Extension Office, they should have someone who can give you a more exact answer.

Thanks for your question.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

I live in Southern California. I have a young maple tree in my yard (3yrs). this year in August, a few leaves began to change color, then all the leaves turned brown and wilted within a week. Could this be Maple wilt?

-- Contributed by: Yvonne

Bark splits are actually fairly common in young trees and can be caused by different things.

Sunscald and frost splits usually occur in the late winter to early spring. Since you are having this problem in the summer, I don't think these problems apply to you.

However, if your tree has had fluctuations in growth due to extended dry periods followed by wet weather, this might be the problem. It makes me think of a tomato that splits because it suddenly got alot of water, causing a growth spurt.

The good news is that bark splits or rarely fatal to the tree, although they can invite bacteria and insects. If you carefully cut away the raw edges with a sterile knife, you should find that it will heal on its own without any other treatment.

Thank you for your question.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

Maple tree - 2 yrs old leaves are green - appears to be healthy however, right below where the tree limbs branch off (bark) about 3-4 inches long the tree bark is splitting/exposing the hard wood underneath the outside layer of bark. Bark looks like it is pealing off. There is another area of bark that is doing the same near the base of the tree, only it is about 1 inch long. The areas that are pealing off go around the entire tree.

-- Contributed by: Charles

This is hard to answer without seeing the tree. If the tree seems healthy otherwise, it is probably safe to ignor the white spots. They may be part of the bark or possibly lichens. As long as your tree appears healthy there is probably no reason for concern. You could call your county extension office for more information if you are still worried about it. Thanks for the question.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

I have an armor maple that is developing white spots on the bark, what is it? How do I treat it?

-- Contributed by: Sue Potter

Your best bet is to call your county extension agent. They can help with diseases that are common in the area where you live and they can tell you how to treat them.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

I have a maple tree that at the very tips pf the branches the leaves are either wilted,dried up or dead. this tree is about 3 years old and it just started doing this in the past 2 months. The lower leaves seem to be doing fine, only seems to be affecting the new growth at the crown of the tree

-- Contributed by: Steven Smith

please send info on this problem contibuted by martha.

-- Contributed by: sharyn

The best thing to do is call your county extension office to inquire about issues specific to the trees in your area.

-- Contributed by: Kathleen Roberts

I have a Maple tree that last year it lost many of its leaves prematurely and seed pods grew where leaves where by the thousands. This year many branches have no leaves at all and most leaves appear much smaller than normal. I live in a suburb of Minneapolis on a lake. Any help would be greatly appreciated. I could also send a photo if that would be helpful. Martha

-- Contributed by: Martha

Read your site...good info...but I have a problem with my Maple tree(I don't know how old it is)but it has all this white, fuzzy,sticky stuff falling off it for 2-3 weeks now(and is is really annoying!! The tree is right by our house!)And I have noticed some black leaves also. What kind of bug is it..the white fuzzy stuff falling looks like is has little legs. Thank you very much and would like to find out what it is.

                                                  Steve

-- Contributed by: Steve Schmidt
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