Common Tree Problems
The following are but a few of the more common issues found in Nova Scotia. These are maladies that you, the homeowner may see on an ailing plant. Should you have any concerns, contact an arborist for a full plant health assessment.
Tar Spot: a common malady of Norway Maples where half-inch dark spots appear on the upsides of leaves. This makes the tree unsightly and causes the leaves to fall early. Raking and disposing of the leaves will help prevent the spread of this fungus to other maple varieties.
Chlorosis: a yellowing of leaves or needles can be caused by several factors such as a nutrient deficiency, poor drainage, root damage and compaction, high soil alkalinity or the environment.
Leaf Curl: this curling or disfiguration of the leaves could be due to insect infestation, a fungus or a virus. Organic methods of control include application of a fertilizer high in Nitrogen and excess watering to give the plant a boost, possible thinning of the crown and disposal of the infected trimmings.
Dieback: refers to the dying of twigs and branches from the tips back towards the main stem. Common causes are insects and disease, mechanical damage, compaction of the soil around the roots, a lack of water or nutrients, girdling roots, an increase or decrease in the height of the grade around a tree and old age.