Knowledgebase

Oak Tree Leaves Dying . . #757154

Asked June 19, 2021, 7:58 AM EDT

Our neighborhood oak trees are being affected by something that is killing the leaves from the branch tips upward toward the tree. I have 3 oaks, one about 10 yrs old, 2 about 50 yrs old, all three affected. Could it possibly be cicadas? Thanks for your help. Annie

Howard County Maryland

Expert Response

Hello Annie,

Yes, cicada egg-laying damage is a strong contender at the moment for the cause of dying foliage on oak branch tips. We can take a look at photos to help make a diagnosis, or you can compare damage you see with the images on these pages:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/cicadas

https://cicadacrewumd.weebly.com/gallery.html (see the "damage to plants" section)

If you do not see egg-laying scars on the twigs that are browning, please try to send us close-up photos if you can reach some sample areas so we can evaluate whether other pests or diseases may be at work. Environmental stress is also a consideration, but usually that precedes more noticeable pest or disease issues (though not cicada damage).


Miri

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 21, 2021, 10:42 AM EDT
Thank you!  Yes, I am seeing vertical scarring along the ends of the branches where the leaves are dying.  I feel so relieved, thank you for your prompt response.

Cheers,
Annie


The Question Asker Replied June 22, 2021, 1:32 PM EDT

You're welcome!

Answered by the Home and Garden Information Center (HGIC), University of Maryland Extension. For timely gardening information and tips, subscribe to our Maryland Grows blog and quarterly newsletter. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube. Replied June 22, 2021, 2:25 PM EDT

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