Primarily affecting apple and crabapple trees, Apple Scab is a common sight in New Jersey. This disease manifests as velvety, dark spots on leaves and fruit, which can lead to premature leaf drop and a less vibrant tree canopy.
PA unique disease, Cedar-Apple Rust, requires two hosts to complete its life cycle: junipers and apple or crabapple trees. It creates bright orange, gelatinous galls on juniper trees in spring, which release spores that infect apple and crabapple trees.
Dutch Elm Disease is a notorious fungal disease that primarily targets elm trees. It’s spread by bark beetles and through root grafts between adjacent trees. The fungus blocks the water-conducting vessels of the tree, and brown leaves, often leading to the tree’s death.
Oak Wilt is a serious disease that predominantly affects oak trees, particularly the red oak family. It’s caused by a fungus carried by a beetle that borer into oak trees. The fungus invades and disables the water-conducting systems of oak trees.
Specifically targeting dogwoods, this fungal disease is a common sight in our area, causing leaf spots, stem cankers, and twig dieback. In wet and cool spring weather, it can lead to significant defoliation and branch dieback.
Powdery Mildew is a common fungal problem affecting a variety of plants, including trees like oaks, maples, and dogwoods. It’s easily identifiable by its distinctive white, powdery coating on leaves and sometimes stems.