AboutJim Hyland Expertise I am an expert in Forestry, Forest Entomology, Forest Pest Control, and Forest Health. Extensive knowledge in Identification of insects and diseases of trees. Expert on Bark beetles and other insects that attack forests. Also a Registrated Forester with extensive knowledge in the management and care of forests.
Experience 34 years as State Pest Management Chief in a Southern state. Extensive knowledge in Forestry.
BS with major in Forest Management and Entomology Registered Forester Certified Pesticide Appicator
I have a Crimson King Maple tree aprox. 7 years old. This year I noticed some of the leaves are being eaten by something which causes them to look lacey. Small holes that eventually comsume the leaf. About 10% to 20% of the leaves. Also, I noticed some dark brown/black spots on the trunk of the tree near the base climbing to about 2 feet up. There is a split in the tree around these spots. Not an open split, but something that has grown with the tree for a few years. Possibly starting out as a small cut. So I guess I have 2 concerns, the holes in the leaves and the spots. Should I be concerned and is there anything I can/should do?
Thank you very much,
Robin
Answer The holes in the leaves I would not be concerned about. Form time to time insects will feed on the leaves and as long as there is not complete defoliation for a couple of years in a row there is very little damage to the tree. Hardwood have the capability to leaf out after they have been defoliated but if this happens a couple of times in a row the growth of the tree will suffer by some dieback or smaller leaves. You are a long ways from this with a few holes eaten.
The dark spot on the trunk look like borer damage and are a concern. I would spray the area on the trunk with an insecticide called Merit or Onyx. These will kill the insect in the bark and prevent others from attacking. Check with your local nursery for these insecticides.
)