Hackberry trees losing leaves - Ask Extension
We have two hackberry trees in our yard that started leafingg out, but then began to wilt and dry up and have lost most of the leaves. Have always bee...
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Hackberry trees losing leaves #458560
Asked May 31, 2018, 9:18 PM EDT
We have two hackberry trees in our yard that started leafingg out, but then began to wilt and dry up and have lost most of the leaves. Have always been healthy trees. What happened and will they survive?
Martin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Thank you for contacting AaE for help.
It's difficult to say what it is. It could be related to drought stress. Even though we've had pretty good rainfall in recent years, it can take a tree a few years after experiencing the stress of drought years earlier before it succumbs. On the other hand, it could be herbicide drift from someone treating a weedy area nearby. Are you aware of anything like that in your area?
I recommend that you have a professional arborist evaluate your tree to determine the cause. Another option is to send in a sample for diagnosis by the U of MN Extension service Plant Disease Clinic. Here is a link to the clinic's website where you'll find out more about their services, prices and how to submit a sample.
Good-luck!
We do have a field across the road that uses spray. But none of the other trees that are as close to the field are affected and these two trees do not stand side by side. The more severe one is further away from the field. Thanks for your input
