Maple is considered a robust deciduous tree. However, the wilt fungus can certainly cause problems for the tree. How to identify and treat an affected maple tree.
How do you recognize and treat wilt fungus on maple trees?
Wilt fungus on the maple manifests itself through wilted leaves, dead shoots and cracked bark. For treatment, infected parts of the plant should be removed, the tree dug up and planted in new, fungus-free soil. Avoid the fungus by choosing a suitable location.
How do I recognize the wilt fungus on the maple?
Wilted leavesanddead shoots on the maple are typical symptoms of this disease. It is a fungal infection with the Verticillium fungus. However, wilted leaves can also be caused by drought or other causes. Check the conditions where the maple tree is located. This way you can rule out other diseases. If the tree has a lot of dead branches in spring and no longer sprouts,
How does the wilt fungus develop on maple trees?
The wilt fungus works its way further and further up the tree from thesoil. This is how the fungus develops on the maple tree:
- First, maple leaves wilt.
- The leaves appear limp and are gradually drying out.
- If the infestation is more severe, the bark appears cracked.
- Eventually more and more branches of the maple die.
What do I do about the wilt fungus on the maple?
Prune and, if possible, dig up the tree for transplanting into new substrate. Here's how to do it:
- Use a sharp cutting tool.
- Disinfect the blade thoroughly.
- Cut off infected plant parts.
- Remove pruning and fallen leaves from the garden.
- Dig up the maple and clean the roots of soil.
- Plant in completely new soil.
Note that the wilt fungus is spreading in the soil beneath the maple tree. To avoid reinfection, you must plant the maple in new soil that is free of the wilt fungus.
How do I avoid wilt fungus on maple trees?
Choosesuitable locations for the maple and avoid those where the wilt fungus has already appeared. This way you can prevent the fungus from spreading. Containment is also important because otherwise the wilt fungus will look for new host plants and attack not only trees but also some vegetables. Some gardeners also react to an infestation by replacing the soil over large areas in order to get rid of the permanent spores.
Tip
Identifying wilt on cut-back wood
The wilt creates dark rings in the affected wood. If you cut back the maple, you can also see whether the wilt fungus has spread through the plant by cutting back affected areas.
