Have you ever noticed the leaves on your trees turning brown earlier than usual in mid-summer? At first, this subtle color change may not seem like a big deal. You may conclude that this browning is simply a result of warmer temperatures or droughts, and the tree will adapt and correct the issue itself over time. However, this abnormal leaf color is the first sign of a serious problem affecting many species of trees all over eastern and southern New Jersey.
This premature browning results from a bacterial invasion in the xylem (the tree’s central water- and nutrient-conducting tissue) and is aptly termed Bacterial Leaf Scorch (BLS). The bacterium Xylella fastidiosa is responsible for BLS and causes the characteristic leaf scorch by clogging the vessels of the xylem, preventing the movement of water and nutrients from the roots to the rest of the tree through these vessels. The result is dehydrated and nutrient-deficient leaves that appear brown and yellow (and likely bright red in areas). The browning begins with the older leaves and moves to the branch tips. This discoloration worsens slowly over three to eight years until all the leaves prematurely brown. Then another concern takes the spotlight; the twigs and branches start visibly dying, eventually leading to the tree’s death.
And the bad news does not end there. BLS is uncurable, chronic, and likely fatal. It is also highly transmissible; Xylem-feeding spittlebugs and leafhoppers quickly and uncontrollably spread the bacteria from tree to tree, along with the root grafts. In addition, it is challenging to distinguish BLS from similar tree infections, such as oak wilt or Dutch elm disease, unless you are a tree expert.
Check out this blog for a deeper look into the potential downfalls of addressing BLS yourself. After a quick read, you will see precisely why consulting a Bacterial Leaf Scorch expert is the best approach. And for top-tier assistance with all your BLS concerns, contact us today!