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Red Japanese Maple leaves turning yellow #636004

Asked May 15, 2020, 1:17 PM EDT

We have 2 Red Japanese Maples. They have been doing very well, but recently they both started getting leaves with yellow areas or turning mostly yellow and the new growth seems to be shriveling. (see photos). Kinda perplexed, I don't see any infestations. Any help would be appreciated! Ed 

Howard County Maryland

Expert Response

This looks like cold damage and we are receiving photos of Japanese maples like this from all over the state. Many plants were lured out of dormancy and then were hit with frosts and cold temperatures recently. On some trees we are also noticing damage on the top growth versus the bottom growth. This may be due to warmth from the ground area and and bottom growth was not affected. 
These damaged portions will eventually drop out. If the tree is otherwise healthy, it will push out new growth this spring/summer. No control is necessary.

Keep your tree well watered during dry periods and make sure mulch is no thicker than several inches and away from the trunk. You can send us more photos this season, if you notice additional symptoms.

Marian
Answered by the Home & Garden Information Center's Maryland Certified Professional Horticulturists Replied May 18, 2020, 11:26 AM EDT
Marian,

Thanks for the prompt and informative reply.
Dang this crazy weather!
Glad it was nothing more serious, we love our trees.

Ed
The Question Asker Replied May 18, 2020, 12:55 PM EDT
You are welcome.

Marian
Answered by the Home & Garden Information Center's Maryland Certified Professional Horticulturists Replied May 18, 2020, 1:02 PM EDT

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