Knowledgebase

Issue with trees #858068

Asked January 29, 2024, 3:53 PM EST

Hello, Can you help me with identifying what is causing the issues with the trees shown in the photo? I took these photos last July and found that they were insects living under the tree bark. Birds came in as you can see in one of the photos and were pecking at the bark thus getting to the bugs. I unfortunately know the type of tree but do know they are approx. 15-20 ft tall at maturity. Have a rounded canopy and deciduous leaves. I have attached a few photos below. I look forward to hearing from you. Thank you, Allison

Wexford County Michigan

Expert Response

I found a few more photos showing the discoloration of the leaves on the trees. 

I hope this helps. 

Thank you,

Allison

The Question Asker Replied January 30, 2024, 10:22 AM EST

Hi Allison, thanks for the question.

With photo of the tree that has leaves, I was able to identify it as a hawthorn. Probably a Thornless Cockspur Hawthorn (Crataegus crus-galli (thornless form)).  The browning leaves could be insufficient water or sunscald.  These trees like moist but well-drained soil.  There could be some insect problems.  In one of the photos, you can see what appears to be a spongy moth.  Keep a lookout for aphids, scale, and mites.  Sapsuckers and woodpeckers can do a number on the trees as you have seen.  Some protection around the trunk can be helpful (see link). The tree with the missing bark could be a result of previous damage or improper pruning opening it up to disease.  Another observation is that the trees show no root flare.  Either the wood mulch is way too deep, or the trees were originally planted too deep.  This can result in problems.  If the mulch is more than 2 to 3 inches, consider spreading it thinner and totally removing it just around the trunk.  Check out the links for more information:

Crataegus crus-galli (thornless form) - Plant Finder (missouribotanicalgarden.org)

Woodpecker and Sapsucker Damage on Trees | University of Maryland Extension (umd.edu)

Dealing with Spongy Moth Around Your Home or Property - Integrated Pest Management (msu.edu)

Mulch: Just do it! - MSU Extension

Tree Owner's Manual (usda.gov)

I hope this is helpful.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied January 30, 2024, 3:19 PM EST
That is great info! 
Thanks so much for your assistance with this. 
Allison

On Tue, Jan 30, 2024 at 3:19 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied February 05, 2024, 12:33 PM EST

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