Beech Tree Leaf Disease is an unfortunate recent discovery throughout North America and Canada. As a tree disease first identified in Ohio, BLD continues to baffle scientists across the world. The underlying cause remains unknown, despite the rapid deterioration of beech trees throughout Rhode Island, Ohio, New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, and Pennsylvania. 

However, there are ways to save your trees, including the affected beech tree, with Westport’s tree service experts. Tree diseases quickly spread from leaves to nearby plants, tree branches, and other organic life. So, prompt treatment helps considerably. 

Continue reading to learn the signs of this novel tree leaf disease, along with a few possible solutions.

Identifying Beech Bark Disease In Your Tree

BLD seems to primarily affect young beech tree saplings. However, arborists have also identified numerous widespread issues in larger mature beech trees across the United States. Due to the high volume of trees affected, many scientists have deemed BLD a serious forest epidemic that needs the full attention of the industry.

Treating any disease in trees starts with correctly identifying the signs. Did you know that birds and other wildlife may avoid trees infected with BLD? Other common Beech Leaf Disease symptoms seem to include the following: 

• A leathery texture in the leaves
• Leaf yellowing and discoloration
• Dark bands between the veins of the leaves
• Cracked and chipped bark 
• Prematurely fallen leaves

Infected beech trees also remain prime targets for wood-boring insects, rot damage, frost cracks, and other harmful elements.

Understanding Beech Tree Leaf Disease 

Before now, Beech Bark Disease posed the most pressing threat to beech trees in North America, Canada, and Europe. It raises the mortality rate of infected trees and spreads rapidly. However, BLD appears even deadlier and more pervasive than its predecessor.

Scientists continue to gather information about the pathogens and fungus strains causing such rapid deterioration of beech tree species. Some studies have identified the presence of a nematode worm called Litylenchus crenatae mccannii on affected trees. They consume bacteria, fungi, and microscopic organic matter in the soil, tree leaves, and bark, which may explain a possible link to BLD.

However, treating and eliminating nematode worms still proves incredibly difficult. Many farmers cannot combat crop-killing nematode worm nuisances effectively, as mainstream treatment options fail to kill nematode worms in subsoil layers. Professional arborists will remove infected branches and leaves, but without finding the source, there’s a chance that Beech Tree Leaf Disease may resurge.

Treatment Options for Diseased Beech Trees 

Have you noticed BLD on your property’s trees? Don’t panic; it does not seal the fate of your beech. Trees. With expert help and the following few tips, you can still keep your beech trees looking beautiful:

Hire Trimming & Pruning Services

This disease seems to spread as air currents transmit nematode worms to nearby branches. The best solution is to remove diseased branches quickly, especially if you want to potentially save dying trees. However, never trim diseased branches without experienced professionals—the weakened branches break easily and may cause severe injuries to you or to the remaining healthy parts of the tree.

Limit The Spread

Did you know that you should never move the diseased branches that professionals cut? Doing so may unintentionally spread nematode worms to nearby trees, soil, flowers, and landscapes.

Trust Northeastern Tree, Shrub, & Lawn Care For All Your Tree Service Needs!

How can homeowners save their beautiful trees? The best solution is to hire a service like Northeastern Tree, Shrub, & Lawn Care. We proudly offer full-service tree care in Westchester County and the surrounding areas.

Call Northeastern Tree, Shrub, & Lawn Care at (888) 439-8733 today for more about Beech Tree Leaf Disease, common tree insects in New York, and more.