Knowledgebase

Maple disease #832723

Asked May 30, 2023, 1:30 PM EDT

I am noticing a number of diseased leaves falling from a mature Maple in our yard. I am hoping someone can identify the issue, and what, if anything, should be done about it.

Montgomery County Maryland

Expert Response

This appears to be classic symptoms of anthracnose, a common fungal ailment that can affect a variety of trees in our region. Weather conditions must have been just right at the right time for certain trees and anthracnose fungi since we've seen widespread infection on maples and sycamores so far this season. (The header image of symptoms on a maple leaf on that linked page are mild; we've seen several question submissions recently of leaves with much heavier fungal damage, such as the one in your photo.) Fortunately, unless other unrelated issues are also stressing the tree too greatly, those afflicted with anthracnose may temporarily be an eyesore but they will recover and should replace much of the shed foliage by summer. No treatment with fungicide would be effective at this point, nor would it be recommended in general in this situation due to expense, impracticality, and a lack of guaranteed effectiveness even if applied correctly. You can rake-up and dispose of the fallen leaves for now, though the shedding should abate as the tree recovers.

Miri
Thank you Miri. I do appreciate your help.

David
The Question Asker Replied June 01, 2023, 7:54 PM EDT

Loading ...