Maple Decline Harming CNY Trees – Ag Matters

Have you noticed some trees beginning to show fall colors? While it may be pretty it's not good news. Cornell Cooperative Extension says Maple Decline has some trees showing signs of reduced twig growth, reduced foliage, and early fall coloration.

Cooperative Extension Oneida County’s Horticulture Hot Line has taken several calls regarding the poor conditions of sugar maple, Norway maple, and red maple trees.  Maple decline is brought on by environmental stress factors, which include drought conditions, de-icing salts and/or road and sidewalk construction at the urban setting.

Treatment includes proper watering, fertilizing, pruning out dead branches, and reducing salt-laden spring water runoff over the roots. You can get more information on maple decline and how to treat it in the fact sheets at Cornell's website.  And the Master Gardeners answer your flower and garden questions on the Horticulture Hot Line, Wednesdays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to noon at (315) 736-3394.

SOURCE: Cornell Cooperative Extension  - Holly Wise