The sweetgum tree is commonly known in North America and is no longer a specialty. In this country, however, it enjoys the reputation of a popular ornamental tree. But is it susceptible to diseases and can pests occur?

Discoloration on the leaves of the sweetgum tree often indicates a nutrient deficiency

No specific diseases for sweetgum trees

There are no specific diseases that commonly affect sweetgum trees. As a rule, malformed plant parts and a gloomy appearance are due to care errors. Diseases that occur more frequently in similar-looking trees such as maples, such as powdery mildew, are also unknown in sweetgum trees.

Sick appearance as a result of care mistakes and poor choice of location

If your sweetgum looks ill, there can be various reasons behind it. Sweetgum trees are considered to be quite demanding in terms of location. They need a sunny, warm place to thrive. In the shade they lead a miserable existence and hardly grow.

The soil is also important when choosing a location. A sweetgum tree needs a loose and permeable substrate. A compacted soil can quickly lead to wetness. Furthermore, these trees do not tolerate alkaline soils. Nutrient deficiencies are also quickly noticeable in them.

When it comes to care, watering and fertilizing can quickly go wrong. The soil must be neither too dry nor too wet. If there is too little moisture in the soil, the sweetgum tree dies. A nutrient deficiency only becomes clear after a few years.

Common symptoms in sweetgum trees

The following symptoms may occur:

  • severe leaf loss (especially in dry conditions)
  • Leaves turn yellowish early (especially when wet and nutrient deficiencies)
  • Buds dry up without the leaves opening
  • hardly grows
  • dies

Root rot can occur

If sweetgum trees are watered excessively, they are prone to root rot. Then it's time for potted plants: repot quickly. Outdoor plants should be transplanted when young. However, sweetgum trees can often no longer be helped with root rot…

Young trees are susceptible to aphids and leaf miners

Sometimes young sweetgum trees are attacked by aphids. These particularly like to settle on the leaf veins, as these are the juiciest. Miner moths also appear from time to time. Usually, however, the infestation is not serious.

tips

If a disease does spread to the leaves, you can simply cut off the affected parts and dispose of them in the household waste.

Category:

Trees