Multi year leaf scorch - Ask Extension
I have a Variegated Norway Maple that I planted about 3 years ago. Beginning in mid-spring, all the leaves began curling and scorching on the edges an...
Knowledgebase
Multi year leaf scorch #765880
Asked August 05, 2021, 11:27 AM EDT
I have a Variegated Norway Maple that I planted about 3 years ago. Beginning in mid-spring, all the leaves began curling and scorching on the edges and in the middle. I water the tree liberally and always have since I first planted it. I have tried anti-fungal treatments, anti-scorch sunscreen spray, and pest treatments (as per the recommendations from Gertens). This tree has had very little growth in the time I have had it. None of the other trees or plants in my yard have this condition. I have been trying to figure this out for a few years now with no luck. Please help me figure out what is going on with this tree. Pics attached.
Thank you
Dion Chapman
Dakota County Minnesota
Expert Response
Thank you for writing.
Leaf scorch is predominantly seen in young maples before the root systems are fully mature to handle the high transpiration (sweating) needs of the sun stressed tree. There are management tips here. https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/tree-plant-care/plant-care-resources/leaf-scorch/#!
One thing about your tree. It can be subject to genetic reversion in which leaves on some branches lose varigation. Tie a little string around those branches. Maples generally need a lot of pruning but it should be done in the winter. Selectively prune the reverted non-variagated branches.
