Hello Lynda,

Quite often when a red Japanese maple starts to revert to green leaves, the leaves arise from the rootstock since most Japanese maples are grafted. These stems may be weaker and wind around the tree. In that case, you can simply crawl under the tree and cut out the stems that have reverted. Unfortunately, I cannot tell the origin of these stems from the picture.

If these are green leaves growing on the same stem as red leaves, I suggest that you send a sample to the MSU Extension’s Plant and Pest Diagnostic Lab for diagnosis. To learn how to send a sample go to: https://www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/

A certified arborist may help you. To find one in your area, go to www.treesaregood.org , the website of the International Society of Arboriculture.

Thank you for contacting Ask Extension.