Anthracnose Is A Foliar Disease
Anthracnose is a foliar disease and affects a large population of shade trees. This disease often appears severe, but in reality, it rarely kills a tree.
What Trees & Shrubs Are Affected By Anthracnose?
A wide variety of trees and shrubs can be affected by this foliar disease, including:
- Ash
- Sycamore
- Dogwood
- Oak
- Maple
To get the best care for your trees and prevent disease, get your trees professionally assessed by an ISA-certified arborist from Hansen’s Tree Service. They will identify your trees and prescribe the best method of care.
What Are The Symptoms Of Anthracnose?
A variety of different fungi causes anthracnose. The spores released from the fungi infect newly emerging leaves. Tan, brown, or black spots begin to develop on leaves near the leaf veins. The discoloration spreads outward from the vein, and the tree may be partially defoliated. Cankers may be present on the stems and branches. In most cases, after a tree has been affected by anthracnose, it will defoliate in spring and regenerate new growth by summer.
Managing Anthracnose In Your Trees
Most trees can withstand anthracnose though it can weaken a tree considerably over several years. When anthracnose is suspected, collect and discard all fallen leaves and branches. Call a professional tree care company to prune away any branches with cankers that contain fungal spores.
This sanitation will minimize the possibility of re-infection the following year. The disease will stress the tree, so light fertilization, water, and mulch are all recommended to boost tree vigor. Fungicides sprays can be unreliable and relatively expensive. When spraying newly emerged foliage on large trees, it can be challenging to get complete and adequate coverage.