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Silver maple leaves turning black and shriveling #646190

Asked June 04, 2020, 7:44 PM EDT

We have a silver maple whose leaves are turning black and shriveling. Online there are various possibilities (anthracnose, maple leaf blister). Wondering if you can tell from photo of a sample leaf what this is, whether it can be treated, and if so how. Also attaching a photo of the full tree. Thanks for any advice you may have!

Baltimore County Maryland

Expert Response

It looks like your maple has symptoms of anthracnose, phyllosticta, and Taphrina spp., several fungal diseases. This spring's extended wet, cool weather has been favorable for fungal disease development and we are receiving numerous reports of similar issues in shade trees (especially maples) from various locations around the state. Fungicides are not effective for curing the symptoms that are already present. Mature shade trees typically produce so much foliage that they can tolerate some leaf damage/loss and still be fine. As long as the tree still largely has green foliage, it can continue photosynthesis and produce energy to sustain its growth. No treatment is necessary. Rake up any fallen leaves and dispose in the trash.
https://extension.umd.edu/hgic/topics/shade-tree-anthracnose-trees

Christa
Many thanks Christa!!!

The Question Asker Replied June 05, 2020, 9:11 AM EDT

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