Let the leaves fall where they may

Whoa! Where did that lovely summer go! It’s Autumn already and this means one thing… clean up! Time to put the garden away for another year. It also means you’ll be able to clearly see your tree branches for good or not so good things . 

We have had many a wind storm this year and any damage done to your trees may have been hidden until now. Limbs can become broken but have enough attachment to still continue being green. These hangers are not as visible as one that is completely detached with its leaves dried up and turned brown. Another thing to look for is any limbs that have become dead in the past. This deadwood could have broken off and caught up in the canopy of your tree. What can I do you ask? You should call a licensed arborist to come have a nosey. They will discuss with you how they can remove the problems as they can fall out easily sometimes causing harm or damage, are unsightly and could be a symptom of something else going on with your tree. 

Some species of trees are more prone to hangers and deadwood than others. Sycamore tree branches are easily snapped in the wind and ash trees are very prone to ample amounts of deadwood. It’s perfectly normal in most cases. If you have an oak with a fair few dead branches there maybe something else going on with it. Why are there black spots on the leaves that have fallen into my garden?

The black spots on leaves is called Tar Spot. It is a fungal disease that originates in the soil your trees are  growing in. The best way to mitigate the disease is to collect all the fallen leaves and dispose of them. You can burn them (if allowed in your area) or bag and tag them. I do not suggest you pile them up or place them in your compost heap. This is because the fungus will continue to propagate and spread to other trees. This disease generally affects maple trees (sycamore, crimson king, Norway) to name a few. If you are unsure, you can always contact your local arborist for a consult. 

Next time in the Arbor Ace Tree Care blogs we will discover a new and growing concern… Ash die back. Till then, enjoy the turning of the leaves!