Numerous do-it-yourself fixes exist for Bacterial Leaf Scorch (BLS). Solutions include irrigation, mulching, supplying antibiotic treatments, controlling leafhoppers, and pruning diseased branches. Are they worth the time and effort?
- Irrigation — In addition to providing new mulch to keep the soil moist, some individuals enhance the overall water supply to the tree. Although, this implementation of an irrigation system only has the potential to lessen the effects of BLS on diseased trees and does not hold enough impact to cure the tree.
- Mulching — The primary purpose behind mulching is to ensure the root system of the infected tree is as healthy as possible. However, this method does not even prevent BLS.
- Antibiotics — Others opt for antibiotic treatments that involve the skillful micro-infusion of antibiotics into the infected tree. However, the use of antibiotics is only for trees known to have BLS and requires annual applications.
- Leafhoppers — One of the significant sources of BLS is different species of bugs moving from an infected tree to a healthy tree and transmitting this disease in the process. Therefore, another standard BLS solution is the management of these critters to prevent the disease from reaching other healthy trees in the area. Nevertheless, finding ways to stop these insects without harming the surrounding environment or the people in that region is challenging.
- Tree Pruning — Another method for addressing the BLS predicament is pruning diseased branches. This technique entails niche knowledge such as how to make a clean cut, which tools to use, how to disinfect these tools properly, and when the best time of the year is to remove these branches.
These DIY treatments can be time consuming and very tricky. Not to mention, they aren't typically effective in entirely eradicating Bacterial Leaf Scorch. Consulting a professional arborist or tree service provider rather than trying to perform any or all of these temporary, at best, DIY fixes is likely the best choice. If you consult with a tree professional, you can be confident that the job will get done right and that BLS will be adequately monitored over time. To speak with a top arborist in South Jersey, contact us now! We are eager to help you with any of your BLS or any other tree concerns and tree services!