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Black spotting on new planted chinquapin oaks #753085

Asked May 31, 2021, 2:28 PM EDT

Is there a concern with these dark spots on my new chinquapin oaks. Some leaf edges are turning brown too. I suspect a fungus. Trees were planed from 5 gal container two weeks ago. I had watered them well during the hot spell, then the rains and cold came, I suspect that may have some5hing to do with it. The soil is fairly sandy and probably slightly acidic. See pics

Oakland County Michigan

Expert Response

Hello,

Yes, I think this looks like leaf-blister, which is a fungal infection.  It rarely impacts the health of the tree, but can look unsightly.  Because the tree is so small, I would recommend treatment next spring before bud-break.  For this year, the only thing you can do is make sure that any leaves that fall are picked up and bagged to prevent more spores to remain around the tree.  The following article discusses this disease and treatment options.

http://plantclinic.cornell.edu/factsheets/oakleafblister.pdf

Don't forget that oaks are vulnerable to oak wilt, and should never be pruned during the growing season.  Wounds that occur during this time should be sealed ASAP with a pruning sealer or paint.

I hope this is helpful.  Thank you for planting an oak tree- they are important to our ecosystem!

Ruth

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 31, 2021, 3:25 PM EDT
Thanks fir the quick response

Sent from my iPad

On May 31, 2021, at 3:25 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


The Question Asker Replied May 31, 2021, 3:50 PM EDT

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