Knowledgebase

Mountain Ash Infestation #830682

Asked May 18, 2023, 9:47 AM EDT

I live in Bend and have 3 dead Mountain Ash trees due to some type of infestation. I had a local tree arborist come out to assess and he indicated it could be due to a sapsucker bird or fire blight. I am suspect that is the cause of this problem. I also am concerned for the other trees on my property and what I can do to prevent damage to the other trees. Your assistance would be most appreciated. Thank you in advance.

Deschutes County Oregon

Expert Response

Hi,  There are definite signs of sapsucker damage, this type of damage is difficult to manage. Given the number of holes this can interfer with the flow of water/nutrients to the limbs and leaves.  Has the plant leafed out yet this year?  If so,  can you send a photo of the current state?  I cannot tell from this photo if fireblight may also be present, would need some additional photos. You can try to some exclusion techniques, but they tend to have marginal success.  Here is some additional information on managing for sapsucker;   

http://extension.msstate.edu/publications/recognizing-sapsucker-damage-yard-trees 

https://extension.umd.edu/resource/woodpecker-and-sapsucker-damage-trees

https://www.uaex.uada.edu/publications/pdf/FSA-7561.pdf


Thanks  


Amy Jo Detweiler,  Professor and Extension Horticulturist Replied May 25, 2023, 6:47 PM EDT

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