Knowledgebase
Ornamental Apple Tree Dying #575815
Asked July 01, 2019, 11:37 AM EDT
Thank you,
- Thomas C.
Jefferson County Colorado
Expert Response
Hello. Thank you for your question. I've included a link below regarding fire blight which is common in apple trees. Does this look like what you're describing?
https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/fire-blight-2-907/
I've also included a link regarding winter watering. Though we've had a cool, wet spring, our previous seasons have been relatively hot and dry which can cause stress in our plants. Is the tree watered with an irrigation system or any other supplemental water prior to this wet season?
https://extension.colostate.edu/topic-areas/yard-garden/fall-and-winter-watering-7-211/
Feel free to email photos and ask additional questions to <personal data hidden>
Thank you
I've attached photos. It may or may not be fire blight. If it is, it looks like there is little I can do to save my tree, but I can start by trimming of infected branches?
Please look at the attached pictures and recommend other signs to look for to verify fire blight. I will check it tonight for oozing bark.
Thanks,
- Thomas
Hello, thank you for your photos. Due to the clayey soil in your area which retains water, the soil may be somewhat waterlogged and the nursery's idea of lack of oxygen or iron may be part of the issue. Check with your nursery for a good product to use to address this.
Pruning the dead branches is a good idea. Per the CSU fact sheet previously provided, please note that you should clean the pruning tool after each cut so that the fire blight does not spread. A germicidal wipe is good for this.
You can contact an arborist at treesaregood.com to find a reputable one. You can ask if they will look at your tree for free.
Please contact us with any further questions.