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Deformed Alder Leaves #839695

Asked July 09, 2023, 12:29 AM EDT

Hi There Folks! I have several young alder trees, otherwise healthy, suddenly showing a small number of these curled, deformed leaves. It seems to be just one or so per branch and near the new growth tip. Any idea what it might be and if I need to do anything about it ? (Located along the Applegate River near Provolt.) Thanks, Liz

Jackson County Oregon

Expert Response

Thank you for the photos, although it is difficult to actually see what is happening. The first photo looked a bit like it might be insect rolling the leaf around eggs; the other photos seem to indicate heat scorch and thus, rolling or curling. Alders are sensitive, as are many deciduous trees to contamination from water run-off, especially water from a lawn or garden area that has been treated to "weed and feed" products.We have had some very hot days "all of a sudden" after a long and drizzly spring. You may want to take a sample of the damage to the Plant Clinic, 5569 Hanley Rd.(Rte. 238) near Jacksonville. Please telephone to check open hours, 541-776=7371.
marjorie n. OSU Ext. Master Gardener Replied July 10, 2023, 7:42 PM EDT
Thank you so much, Marjorie, for taking the time to respond to my inquiry. I will try to bring a leaf in to the clinic for assessment as impacts from a weed/feed product are not a possibility.
Appreciate the work you folks are doing 
Cheers
Liz

From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> on behalf of Extension Foundation <<personal data hidden>>
Sent: Monday, July 10, 2023 4:42 PM
To: Elizabeth Shen <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: Deformed Alder Leaves (#0109621)
 
The Question Asker Replied July 14, 2023, 10:48 AM EDT
You are welcome. I'm sorry I can't make a diagnosis wwithout actually seeing the damage. Leaf curl is almost always a case of herbicide damage or caterpillars. 
marjorie n. OSU Ext. Master Gardener Replied July 15, 2023, 6:50 PM EDT

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