Maple Tree Problem - Ask Extension
The leaves on my maple tree have black spots on them and some are turning yellow and wilting. Please help as we love this tree.
Knowledgebase
Maple Tree Problem #274655
Asked August 31, 2015, 7:57 PM EDT
The leaves on my maple tree have black spots on them and some are turning yellow and wilting. Please help as we love this tree.
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Your tree has Tar Spot. While it looks terrible, it is a cosmetic problem and does not injure your tree. http://www.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/deciduous/maple/leavesspots.html This only becomes a problem if this occurs for several years in a row. More than likely you will not have the same problem next year. A combination of humidity and fungi combine to cause this disease. Sanitation will be important. Make sure to pick up all leaves and dispose of them. Do not mulch them into the soil or add to a compost pile.