Plant Healthcare

Beech Leaf Disease (BLD) is attacking native and ornamental Beech trees in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. It was first reported in 2020 and has spread to Bucks County PA and Hunterdon, Mercer, Somerset counties in NJ among others.

The disease is caused by Litylenchus crenatae ssp mccannii, nematodes (foliar microscopic roundworms) that feed on beech buds and leaves. 

BLD specifically targets the tree’s ability to produce and maintain healthy foliage, which is essential for the tree’s survival.  BLD causes dark green banding, leaf curling, and premature leaf drop. As the disease progresses, leaves become curled and develop a thick, leathery texture that differs dramatically from the normally smooth, flexible beech leaves we’re accustomed to seeing. Most concerning is the occurrence of bud abortion, where the tree fails to produce new buds properly, severely limiting future growth potential, which can lead to tree decline and likely death. 

T&T Tree Service injects a systemic fungicide into the tree, underneath the bark (like the successful treatment for Emerald Ash Borer).  This treatment works from within the tree’s vascular system, providing comprehensive protection against the nematodes. Treatment is once per year, starting in July. The results of this treatment have been remarkable. Testing shows significant improvement in leaf canopy growth and overall tree health in treated trees compared to untreated specimens. Trees that receive proper treatment can maintain their natural beauty and continue to provide the environmental and aesthetic benefits that make beech trees such treasured landscape features.

Bacterial Leaf Scorch (BLS) is a disease caused by Xylella fastidiosa, a bacterium that infects trees’ vascular systems. It is commonly found in pin oak trees and other hardwood trees. Symptoms include premature browning of leaves, wilting, and dieback. BLS restricts water flow and nutrient uptake, leading to tree decline and death.

Long-term treatment is necessary to control BLS. T&T Tree Service recommends annual fertilization during the fall season and a growth inhibitor application once every three years. Applying fertilizers while regulating tree growth thickens the tree’s foliage, allowing it to photosynthesize better and resist BLS

Needle Cast disease infects spruce trees, causing their needles to turn brown and eventually fall off. Left untreated, it can lead to quick defoliation and even tree death. Other conifer trees, such as fir and pine, may also be at risk of Needle Cast Disease. Multi-seasonal treatments are necessary to control this disease effectively.

T&T Tree Service uses a combination of cultural practices, such as proper pruning and tree care, alongside fungicide applications to prevent and treat Needle Cast Disease. During the early growing season, we apply fungicides four times, with 10-to-14-day intervals in between.

Leaf Scab is a fungal infection that appears as dark, irregular spots on the leaves’ surfaces. Meanwhile, Rust Fungus creates small red, orange, or yellow spots on the leaves. Both diseases can cause premature leaf drop and weaken the tree’s overall health. They commonly infest hawthorn, crabapple, apple, pear, and other trees in the rose family.  

T&T Tree Service can effectively control these diseases through our multi-approach treatment plan. Generally, we make three fungicide applications, with 7-to-10-day intervals in between. Fungi in trees take years to fully eradicate, so consistent applications are necessary for long-term control.