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Acer Katsura - blackened stems

kathrynmcdonnellkathrynmcdonnell Posts: 2
in Problem solving
Hello, the stem tips of a newish acer Katsura have started to turn white / black and some of the leaf growth has started to shrivel. We have had some bad(ish) late frosts and I’m wondering if this is frost damage or a disease? Any suggestions on what this might be or advice on what I can do to help the tree would be greatly appreciated. I’ve supplied some photos. Many thanks!

Posts

  • micearguersmicearguers Posts: 646
    That looks like dieback to me, a common occurrence with acers. It can be caused by too much or too little water, but more generally, in my experience, by stress. If this is the full extent it should be fine I think; I have 'Katsura' and it seems a vigorous variety. As it is newish (how new exactly?) and released from nursery conditions it will have suffered from the frosts. Is it in a pot (and if so, is it still in the pot it came in from the nursery), or was it recently planted? E.g. in a pot fresh from nursery it would be a bit more vulnerable; sometimes if root-bound those pots do not retain water. If recently planted, it would benefit from a protective mulch; if it is in an exposed windy position this is another cause of stress.
  • kathrynmcdonnellkathrynmcdonnell Posts: 2
    micearguers said:
    That looks like dieback to me, a common occurrence with acers. It can be caused by too much or too little water, but more generally, in my experience, by stress. If this is the full extent it should be fine I think; I have 'Katsura' and it seems a vigorous variety. As it is newish (how new exactly?) and released from nursery conditions it will have suffered from the frosts. Is it in a pot (and if so, is it still in the pot it came in from the nursery), or was it recently planted? E.g. in a pot fresh from nursery it would be a bit more vulnerable; sometimes if root-bound those pots do not retain water. If recently planted, it would benefit from a protective mulch; if it is in an exposed windy position this is another cause of stress.
    Thanks for the reply. I bought it at the start of April and planted it out. I have wondered if I’ve been over zealous with watering (it’s been so dry). It’s in a sheltered spot so I’d be surprised if it’s the wind. I’ll put down a mulch and see how it gets on. Thanks again.
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