How can I help my Florida avocado tree? - Ask Extension
Within the past couple weeks, my large, mature avocado tree has started to die off, limb by limb. At first, it looked to be just one large branch, but...
Knowledgebase
How can I help my Florida avocado tree? #240472
Asked April 29, 2015, 3:36 PM EDT
Within the past couple weeks, my large, mature avocado tree has started to die off, limb by limb. At first, it looked to be just one large branch, but recently it has picked up the pace. First the leaves start to wilt, then they die and fall off.
Recently, our lawn care company removed some leaves and other materials that had been around the base of the tree for the past several years, so we were wondering if that might have something to do with it. I tried adding mulch around the tree base earlier today to try to help retain moisture. It has rained 3 times in the past week - big storms - so I have not given it any additional water.
This is the first time we've had an issue with the tree. It was here and healthy when we moved in 6 years ago and bears delicious fruit each fall, so I would really like to save it. Thank you for any help anyone can provide!
Recently, our lawn care company removed some leaves and other materials that had been around the base of the tree for the past several years, so we were wondering if that might have something to do with it. I tried adding mulch around the tree base earlier today to try to help retain moisture. It has rained 3 times in the past week - big storms - so I have not given it any additional water.
This is the first time we've had an issue with the tree. It was here and healthy when we moved in 6 years ago and bears delicious fruit each fall, so I would really like to save it. Thank you for any help anyone can provide!
Pinellas County Florida
Expert Response
Good morning, I am sorry to hear (and see) about your avocado tree. I would like to ask you a question. Have you ever seen little sawdust tubes around the trunk? They look like this:
They are easily washed away with rain so are not always there. They would be a pretty certain indicator of what I suspect is wrong. I believe your tree may have laurel wilt. This is a disease spread by a tiny beetle and a fungus that it carries. Unfortunately the disease is fatal and researchers are working furiously to find a solution. With laurel wilt most of the leaves wilt and many hang on the tree for week or even months. I know you mention that they are falling off but in the photos it looks like many are hanging on. To confirm this you would need to consult with a certified arborist- make sure you ask for one familiar with laurel wilt. They can check for further signs and symptoms and if I am right they can remove and dispose of the tree properly. There are guidelines to follow to reduce the spread of the beetle.
I know you will want to learn more about laurel wilt- which was discovered in Pinellas County in 2011 and has spread all over. Here is a website with a wealth of information on the topic: http://www.freshfromflorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Plant-Industry/Save-the-Guac
Also: https://www.freshfromflorida.com/content/download/9743/134726/homeowner%20recs%20RAB-LW%202-25-11.pd...
I hope I am wrong, but it looks very suspicious. Please let me know if you have any further questions.
To find a certified arborist near you: http://www.isa-arbor.com/findanarborist/arboristsearch.aspx
They are easily washed away with rain so are not always there. They would be a pretty certain indicator of what I suspect is wrong. I believe your tree may have laurel wilt. This is a disease spread by a tiny beetle and a fungus that it carries. Unfortunately the disease is fatal and researchers are working furiously to find a solution. With laurel wilt most of the leaves wilt and many hang on the tree for week or even months. I know you mention that they are falling off but in the photos it looks like many are hanging on. To confirm this you would need to consult with a certified arborist- make sure you ask for one familiar with laurel wilt. They can check for further signs and symptoms and if I am right they can remove and dispose of the tree properly. There are guidelines to follow to reduce the spread of the beetle.
I know you will want to learn more about laurel wilt- which was discovered in Pinellas County in 2011 and has spread all over. Here is a website with a wealth of information on the topic: http://www.freshfromflorida.com/Divisions-Offices/Plant-Industry/Save-the-Guac
Also: https://www.freshfromflorida.com/content/download/9743/134726/homeowner%20recs%20RAB-LW%202-25-11.pd...
I hope I am wrong, but it looks very suspicious. Please let me know if you have any further questions.
To find a certified arborist near you: http://www.isa-arbor.com/findanarborist/arboristsearch.aspx
Thank you for your response. Unfortunately we were not able to save the tree - nor confirm that its problems were caused by laurel wilt - but I appreciate your help.
