Trees stand quietly in your yard without ever demanding too much attention. However, a tree will occasionally let you know that something’s wrong.
Usually, you’ll see visible signs of a tree’s distress. One of those signs? Black spots on tree leaves.
Black spots most often indicate fungal infections, and discovering these dark blotches spurs many local homeowners to call tree services in Millington, TN. If that’s why you’re here, don’t worry; it might not mean removing the entire tree. Arborists can usually treat black spot fungus successfully. Learn how below.
What Causes Black Spots on Trees?
Black spot fungus is one of several types of leaf spot diseases common in the South. This fungus is the most likely cause of the dark spots on your tree’s leaves.
Black spot spores thrive in humid environments, especially in spring, when day after day of rain is common. Without enough air circulation between the tree branches to dry the leaves, the fungus can take hold and infect the tree. The fungal infection might seem harmless, but if you don’t treat it, it can lead to various tree health issues – like yellowing leaves, early leaf drop, and even tree leaf deformities.
How To Spot Problems on Tree Leaves
Seeing some black spots on tree leaves around the yard? The best way to prevent long-term black spot fungus damage is to stay alert. Call an arborist if you see anything unusual on the sycamores, maples, and ornamental flowering trees often found in Tennessee yards.
For example, the most likely signs of black spot fungus include:
- Leaves with dark, circular spots (sometimes with yellow halos)
- Curling or oddly shaped leaves
- Leaves dropping earlier than they should
- A general “wilted” look to the tree’s canopy
This particular fungus lives in the air and water and spreads quickly. This fungus will quickly defoliate the tree but may also spread to the inner parts or roots, where the fungal-induced decay can kill the tree. Turning to a certified arborist who can diagnose the issue and recommend a custom treatment plan can save your tree.
Treatment and Prevention of Black Spots on Trees
Black spot fungus goes dormant when the temperatures rise. Don’t be fooled; the fungal problem doesn’t go away untreated.
When you call for expert treatments, arborists start by trimming the affected branches and cleaning up the fallen leaves. They’ll carefully remove branches to ensure plenty of space between limbs so that fresh air can move around. That makes it harder for fungal spores to settle on the tree and spread.
Applying a targeted fungicide can kill the spores before they take hold, too. However, tree owners can also prevent recurring infections by watering trees at the base only (don’t wet the leaves) and correctly disposing of infected leaves.
Spruce Up Tree Care Will Keep Your Trees Healthy
Black spots on trees might look minor, but like signs of pest infestation in trees, they are indicators that you might be facing bigger tree problems.
Spruce Up Tree Care serves Millington, Tennessee, and nearby areas. Call us at (901) 833-8284 for more on maintaining healthy, beautiful yards and trees!
