Shoot death usually only affects young or weakened maple trees. In this case, however, you should take the right measures promptly. With the following tips you can stop the spread of the fungal infection and save the affected maple tree.
How do you treat shoot dieback in maple trees?
Maple shoot dieback is caused by the fungus Stegonsporium pyriforme. Affected areas should be cut off and discarded. To prevent shoot death, ensure there is enough water, fertilize with compost and plant robust maple varieties.
How does shoot death manifest itself in maple trees?
When shoots diebranchesof the maple dry out until they die andblack discoloration occurs on the bark of the tree. Unlike the dangerous sooty bark disease, in this case the sooty-black discolorations are found on the bark and not underneath it. As a rule, this disease affects maple trees that are under a certain type of stress.
What is the cause of shoot death on maple trees?
The shoot death is usually caused by afungus called Stegonsporium pyriforme. This attacks weakened maple trees. If trees are weakened by frost or drought stress or mice have eaten the maple roots, this fungal attack can lead to shoot death. When treating, you should treat the symptoms as well as eliminate possible causes.
How do I treat a maple tree with shoot dieback?
CutCut off affected areas anddispose ofin a closed trash. Especially with a young plant or a freshly planted maple, you should quickly prune accordingly and eliminate possible stress factors at the location. You can then treat larger cuts with a wound closure agent (€10.00 on Amazon) from a garden specialist store.
How can I prevent maple shoots from dying?
In dry times, ensure a goodwater supply and occasionally fertilize the root area with compost. For young plants, you can promote the growth of the roots by adding organic fertilizer. If the tree is well supplied with nutrients and water, it usually offers little opportunity for shoot death.
Tip
Use robust varieties
You can plant robust varieties like the Japanese maple. These are not as susceptible to stress factors and diseases as some other maple species. Only the infamous Verticillium wilt causes serious problems for this tree species.