Knowledgebase
Japanese Maple Spots #805994
Asked August 12, 2022, 5:05 PM EDT
I have a Japanese Maple which shows some spots on several leaves. I have taken some close-up photos which I would like to submit for your review.
Would greatly appreciate any suggestions how to treat this problem. Thank you.
Roland Pezold
Oakland County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello Roland,
The damage on the red leaf appears to be purple bordered leaf spot- Phyllosticta, a fungi that when mature leaves small holes in the leaf- https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/purple-bordered-leaf-spot/
The damage on the green leaf looks like tears from wind damage, or possibly insect feeding.
Neither tree is going to be adversely affected by this damage. By now, the roots have likely stored enough energy for over wintering.
Do keep your trees watered, about one inch of water per week. If the root zones are not mulched with shredded or chipped bark, this is helpful, too, in maintaining moisture, reducing grass or other plant competition for nutrients and moisture, and regulating soil temperatures. Do not let mulch touch or pile against the trunks of the trees. A properly hydrated tree will be healthier, less prone to insects and disease, and leaves will maintain their color and flexibility longer.
You may email pictures to MSU Plant and Pest Diagnostic laboratory for a second opinion. Include a picture of the whole tree from soil line to top of canopy. Include details like how you water the trees ( sprinkler or soaker hose?), how much water, and which chemicals or fertilizers have been used within 12- 15 feet of the plants, or on the plants themselves, and when they were last used.
The email consultation is free of charge. <personal data hidden>
If the lab needs to analyze leaf samples there is a fee for that. Their website describes how to submit samples, the fee schedule, and has the lab contact information.
Thank you for the information and quick response.
Have a questions for which you could provide guidance:
You mentioned one inch of water per week …what is the best way to measure this amount ??
Thank you ..Roland G Pezold
From: askextension=<personal data hidden> <askextension=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Ask Extension
Sent: Friday, August 12, 2022 6:37 PM
To: Roland Pezold <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: Japanese Maple Spots (#0075925)
These guides describe this in detail:
https://mortonarb.org/plant-and-protect/tree-plant-care/plant-care-resources/watering-trees-and-shrubs/#established-trees
https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/watering-established-trees-and-shrubs#how-much-water-to-use-1261761
Regards, Laura