Leaf spots in Upstate South Carolina are common and usually do not pose a serious threat to tree health. However, the appearance of black spots with other conditions can indicate additional problems that might need professional attention.
"Leaf spot disease" is a broad term involving several infections or diseases affecting trees. Fungal infections cause most black leaf spots found on trees in Greenville County.
If you have concerns about black spots on tree leaves on your property, Monster Tree Service of Greenville County, the most reliable tree service in Greenville County, is here to provide information and assistance.
Will Black Leaf Spots Kill a Tree?
While black spots can cause leaves to fall off prematurely as autumn approaches, they are usually short-term issues that will not affect a tree in the following spring. Many hardwood species are more prone to developing leaf spots during cooler and wet weather as summer ends.
The spots are cosmetically unattractive and cause leaves to fall early because the fungus causing them feeds on the leaves. When a tree senses that leaves are under attack, it will shed them as a defensive move against the spread of the fungus.
Fortunately for established trees, this process usually comes later in the season after plant foliage has done most of the work needed for the season. Excessively hot and humid weather can cause leaf spot diseases earlier in the summer, but not as rapidly as cool and wet weather.
Significant leaf loss earlier in the season can affect a tree's ability to store energy. That can cause a tree's health to decline and can kill a tree with serious infections.
Which Trees Get Leaf Spots?
In our region, almost all trees can get some form of leaf spot disease. The condition is most noticeable on broadleaf trees, usually hardwoods like oaks, maples, and chestnuts.
How Does Leaf Spot Disease Spread?
Airborne spores spread diseases caused by various fungi. Arborists think of fungal spores as microscopic seeds. As black spots develop on tree leaves, they release spores that ride on air currents to other leaves and green plants. In addition to wind, rain helps to spread spores and causes them to grow more rapidly.
Insects also spread fungal diseases from tree to tree as they feed and travel on leaves.
Treating Black Spots
Prevention is often the best cure; to keep your trees healthy, you should:
Water your plants during the early morning
Rake away any fallen, diseased leaves as soon as you notice them
Keep a close eye on your plants and act as soon as you notice a problem
That said, even the best-kept trees may develop issues eventually. If you notice black spots forming, you'll likely need to use a fungicide to get rid of them. Take the time to speak to a certified arborist about what you should use; they can make recommendations and even handle treatment for you.
Contact Monster Tree Service of Greenville County for Professional Arborist and Tree Services in Greenville County
Our customers count on our expert arborists for advice and assistance in managing healthy trees throughout Greenville County. Whether you need assistance with tree diseases, are wondering, "Do trees die of old age?" or anything else tree-related, we are here to help.
Treating and preventing black spots on tree leaves usually involves best tree care practices. Professional tree services are sometimes needed to assess a serious problem and recommend proper remediation.
We offer tree removal, tree trimming, and tree stump removal, along with other expert arborist services. Call us today at (864) 756-5665 to get started on a free, no-obligation estimate for complete tree services.