Don’t fear the fungus, trouble mostly cosmetic
JANESVILLE — Your silver maple trees could suffer this summer from a fungus with a dangerous-sounding name.
Don’t panic, said UW Extension Horticulture Agent Mike Maddox.
Lots of local homeowners have been calling the Horticulture Helpline to ask about anthracnose, a fungal leaf spot. The fungus leaves a blackish-brown spot on silver maple leaves, Maddox said.
The fungus is not anthrax, said Maddox, who is the horticulture educator at Rotary Gardens in Janesville.
Anthracnose is mostly a cosmetic problem, Maddox said. Trees normally form new leaves in a couple weeks to replace the affected ones, he said.
This spring’s cool, damp weather has encouraged anthracnose growth, Maddox said. The fungus is less common in dry years.
Anthracnose has been commonly reported on silver maples, although it can grow on ash and white oaks.
It’s difficult to prevent an anthracnose outbreak, Maddox said. Sprays must be applied before a breakout occurs, and it’s difficult to treat an entire tree, he said.
“Chemical control is not recommended,” Maddox wrote in a statement.
TO LEARN MORE
If you have more questions about anthracnose or other issues with plants in your yard or garden, call the Horticulture Helpline at (608) 757-5696.
related STORIES
Before you post a comment, consider this:
Note: GazetteXtra.com does not condone or review every comment. Read more in our User Policy AgreementPost Comment
Commenting requires registration.