problem solver
Maple leaf scorch
IDENTIFICATION — If your maple looks like someone used a torch on the leaves — especially near the top and on the southern side — your tree is probably suffering from leaf scorch, a direct result of dry summer heat. Trees transpire, like we do when we sweat, and if they lose more water than the roots can absorb, the leaves may scorch.
CONTROL — You’ll need to do some extra watering. Focus most of the water in the area directly beneath the outer tips of the branches, since that’s where the fine roots that absorb water quickly are located. Set a sprinkler and let it run until a coffee can placed in the area measures an inch of water. Do this once a week until the tree goes dormant. If it rains, you can reduce the amount of water. The damaged leaves will not recover, but next year the tree will be fine, if there is adequate moisture.
