Have you been worrying about your weeping willow lately? If the growth form of the tree changes or if branches and leaves turn yellowish, there is probably a disease behind it. Before you rashly take the wrong measures, you should first get an idea of the exact cause. This article will help you to interpret the symptoms correctly and explain the most common weeping willow diseases.
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Common weeping willow diseases
- shoot tip drought
- willow scab
- galena
shoot tip drought
This disease is caused by a fungus called 'Marssonina saliciola'. You can recognize an infestation by growths on the branches. Don't be fooled if the fungus seems to go away on its own in the fall. It overwinters inside the tree and reappears in spring.
A radical pruning of the affected branches and the complete removal of fallen leaves helps against shoot tip drought.
willow scab
A fungus is also responsible for this disease. The pest that causes unsightly growths and discoloration on the branches of the weeping willow is called 'Pollaccia saliciperda'. An infestation is not to be trifled with, as the disease quickly kills the entire tree. The best way to prevent this is to give the weeping willow phosphorus and potassium.
galena
A white, lead-like film on the leaves and branches of the weeping willow gave the disease its name. Once again, a fungus is behind the symptoms. This time it is 'Stereum purpureum'. While older weeping willows are less vulnerable, you need to take special care of a young specimen. As with willow scab, you can use phosphorus and potassium to combat the pest. You must also immediately remove all infested parts of the tree.
Note: Never dispose of the infested cuttings in the compost. From here, the fungus will spread, attack your weeping willow again and probably spread to surrounding trees as well. It is best to burn the branches or dispose of them in an airtight bag with organic waste.