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Maple Trees

The ends of my maple leaves are turning black.

Stresses such as deep planting and poor drainage can cause root death, resulting in leaf browning.  If the leaf damage is caused by anthracnose fungi, sanitation is important in reducing the amount of fungal inoculums available for new infections. Infected leaves should be raked in the fall; they may be burned or shredded and composted.

Pruning to thin the crown of the tree will improve air movement and promote faster drying of the leaves. Dead twigs and small branches should be pruned out and burned or buried.

If fungicides are used, sprays must be applied on a preventative basis, beginning before infection occurs.

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