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Tree Foilage #805194

Asked August 08, 2022, 11:27 AM EDT

Can you identify what might be causing many trees on our property to be stripped of their leaves? This has been happening gradually over the past several months. I've not seen any bugs or worms on the trees but it does look like something is eating the leaves. Thank you.

Kent County Michigan

Expert Response

What are the possible for you to also add a photo or two of the base of the tree the surrounding grass around it and the trunk?
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Here are some photos of the base of the trees that have the most damage. The trees are surrounded by wood chips.

On Mon, Aug 8, 2022 at 11:46 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied August 08, 2022, 12:08 PM EDT
Thank you for the photos. Do you have any images of the fallen leaves? The leaves on the trees look healthy and the trunks also look okay to me. I will say that on a few of the photos it is hard to distinguish a "root flare" and I am wondering if the trees are mulched a bit too high. This can sometimes stress the trees out and cause decline. More information here: https://extension.psu.edu/mulching-landscape-trees

Leaf drop can also be associated with environmental stressors like drought or heat. In dry summers like this one, even established mature trees may need supplemental irrigation: https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/watering-established-trees-and-shrubs
Isabel Branstrom Consumer Horticulture Educator Michigan State University Extension Want to learn more about gardening in Michigan?  Visit www.migarden.msu.edu Replied August 10, 2022, 11:24 AM EDT
Here are some images of the fallen leaves. Plus one with the leaves on one of the trees.

Regarding the mulch, that may definitely be an issue as my husband mulches every year. Removing the mulch and providing supplemental irrigation are great suggestions.



On Wed, Aug 10, 2022 at 11:24 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied August 10, 2022, 2:01 PM EDT
Thanks for the additional photos. I think it is related to drought stress and the mulch. I stand by the supplemental irrigation recommendation! Thanks for using Ask Extension.
Isabel Branstrom Consumer Horticulture Educator Michigan State University Extension Want to learn more about gardening in Michigan?  Visit www.migarden.msu.edu Replied August 15, 2022, 10:57 AM EDT

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