Knowledgebase

What is this that is hurting my tree. #275648

Asked September 04, 2015, 1:13 PM EDT

Hello and thank you for the anticipated help. Please identify this if you can from these photos and give me a solution.
Also when I asked the question the first time the form only let me upload one photo. When I uploaded another photo, it asked this question of another expert. I would still like your answer.
Sorry for the duplication.
Thank you Mike

DuPage County Illinois

Expert Response

Mike, I noticed your question and though I am not in your state this is a type of gall on the leaves.  Leaf galls are not harmful to the tree and we do not recommend any treatments.  They are often caused by tiny insects that lay their eggs into the leaves very early in the development of the leaves.  The leaves continue to function but develop strange growths that help to protect the insect as it develops within.  These insects do not feed on the tree and are not harmful to the trees health.  Now you also have browning and yellowing between the veins which indicates some environmental stress, which could be hot and dry conditions.  Consider what type of stress this tree went through prior to this occurring to decide if it needs more consistent watering through the season.  Use of 2 to 3 inches of mulch spread evenly over the root system can reduce loss of water during hot conditions.  The leaf tip that is chewed off is likely from a caterpillar.  I cannot identify which one but these are only a problem if large numbers of caterpillars are feeding on the tree at the same time.  So the larger problem is the yellowing and browning and this should be addressed by deciding if the site is getting enough water consistently.  Sometimes it can also be the reverse...too much water causing plants to become stressed as needed oxygen  is pushed out of soil by heavy rains or over watering a landscape.  Again consider conditions right before this occurred to determine need for water. 
An Ask Extension Expert Replied September 28, 2015, 2:59 PM EDT

Loading ...