Acer rubrum, as the red maple is called botanically, is widespread mainly in the east of the North American continent. The imposing deciduous tree is best known for its magnificent autumn colors and is therefore one of the main reasons for the so-called "Indian Summer" in its homeland. In this country, too, the red maple is often planted in gardens, after all it is a fairly robust tree.
Drying leaves on the red maple can be a sign of disease
Discolored and/or dried leaves
But no matter how robust the ornamental tree may be, it does not forgive care mistakes or an unsuitable location so quickly. Dried up and / or discolored leaves are usually an indication that the red maple does not feel particularly comfortable in its location and / or is affected by incorrect care. Excessive dryness in particular, but also waterlogging not only lead to visual impairments, but also to more serious diseases as a result. If the sun's rays are too intense or the heat is too great, the tree often reacts with withered leaf tips or brownish spots on the leaves. The latter indicate burns from UV light.
fungal diseases
Incorrect care or an unsuitable location are usually the cause of various fungal diseases. A lack of watering, especially on hot summer days, often leads to powdery mildew, a disease in which the leaves and shoots are covered with a white-grey fungal layer. However, powdery mildew can be combated very well with household remedies, for example with a mixture of whole milk and water that is sprayed on the tree over a period of several days.
Verticillium wilt often leads to dieback
The situation is very different with Verticillium wilt, a fungal disease that blocks the water and nutrient supply in the wood’s pathways and sooner or later leads to the death of the tree. To date, neither a herb nor an effective fungicide has grown against this fungus. The only measure that can help is a strong pruning of the affected maple, which is combined with replanting.
Common Pests
Various pests such as aphids and scale insects, spider mites or gall mites can be found on the undersides of the leaves of weakened red maples, especially in spring and summer. These pests, which are very easy to control, are usually the result of incorrect care and/or an unsuitable location.
tips
Maples are generally very susceptible to Verticillium wilt and should therefore never be planted out in a location where this disease has previously occurred.