Knowledgebase

Redbud Leaf Spots #776143

Asked October 22, 2021, 2:45 PM EDT

I live in Bowie Maryland and would appreciate your advice. All three of the young redbuds (two Eastern and one Forest Pansy) that I planted last spring seem to be suffering from something. They are planted in an area where I had old maple trees removed about 3 years ago. As shown in the photos – there are dark blotches on most leaves that I think appeared with the last few weeks. The stems appear to be normal with small buds emerging. Any ideas on the cause of the spotty leaves and is there anything I should do about it? Thank you for your help!

Prince George's County Maryland

Expert Response

We see end of season leaf spots on the foliage and this is not serious. The trees should have enough reserves in the root system to put out new growth next season. 

We recommend that you remove the tree shelters from around the trunk as this can hold moisture around the trunk and cause some trunk decay.  If you are protecting the trunks from deer rubbing, we suggest that you put fencing around the trunk instead. This will provide protection as well as good air circulation. 

Make sure the trees are not planted too deeply. A properly planted tree/shrub flares at the base of the trunk at the soil line where it joins the root system. In some cases, soil is piled up around trunks at the plant nursery. If so, carefully remove the excess mulch or soil from the circumference of the trunk to the point where the trunk flares out into root growth. 

Here is information on planting too deeply and planting trees and shrubs https://extension.umd.edu/resource/trees-planted-too-deeply

https://extension.umd.edu/resource/planting-tree-or-shrub

Remove the grass out to the dripline of the trees and mulch this area. Mulch should be no thicker than several inches and away from the trunk. This will prevent competition for moisture and nutrients with the grass and prevent lawn mower/string trimmer injury.  Keep the tree watered during dry periods up until the ground freezes.

Marian

Loading ...