Chlorotic Maple - Ask Extension
Hello! I have a chlorotic autumn blaze maple. I love this tree, if I didn't I'd probably cut it down and start over (now that I know how common and di...
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Chlorotic Maple #421626
Asked August 16, 2017, 1:39 PM EDT
Hello! I have a chlorotic autumn blaze maple. I love this tree, if I didn't I'd probably cut it down and start over (now that I know how common and difficult iron chlorosis is)! I've tried soil applications to no avail. The tree is large-ish, about 10 years old. I'd like to find help with (or someone to provide the service) iron injections. I'm wary of promises made about treating this condition, so I'm wondering a) if you have other ideas or suggestions, and b) if you can recommend a tree service.
Thank you!
-Molly Lauterbach
Wellington
Larimer County Colorado
Expert Response
Hi Molly,
What soil applications have you done? Specifically what iron chelate was used and what time of year did you apply it?
The most effective iron chelate to use is one that contains EDDHA...the ones that contain EDTA are not effective in high pH soils (they also happen to be less expensive). Applying the iron in spring, just prior to budbreak appears to be the most effective time, BUT the tree must be well watered and actively pulling water from the soil.
If you want to consider injections, then you would need to contact a tree company that provides this service. I do not know of any specifically that offer this service, but just know that when injections are used, you are drilling into the tree, which is causing a wound.
While you love this tree, is it possible to consider planting another tree near this one that is not susceptible to chlorosis? Then, as the new tree grows, you can consider removal of this maple. It's just a thought, though I know how hard it is to take down a tree :) This will, of course, depend on how much you want to invest into this tree.
Here is some additional information from CSU Extension on iron chlorosis: http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/gardennotes/223.pdf
What soil applications have you done? Specifically what iron chelate was used and what time of year did you apply it?
The most effective iron chelate to use is one that contains EDDHA...the ones that contain EDTA are not effective in high pH soils (they also happen to be less expensive). Applying the iron in spring, just prior to budbreak appears to be the most effective time, BUT the tree must be well watered and actively pulling water from the soil.
If you want to consider injections, then you would need to contact a tree company that provides this service. I do not know of any specifically that offer this service, but just know that when injections are used, you are drilling into the tree, which is causing a wound.
While you love this tree, is it possible to consider planting another tree near this one that is not susceptible to chlorosis? Then, as the new tree grows, you can consider removal of this maple. It's just a thought, though I know how hard it is to take down a tree :) This will, of course, depend on how much you want to invest into this tree.
Here is some additional information from CSU Extension on iron chlorosis: http://www.ext.colostate.edu/mg/gardennotes/223.pdf
