Mid-Summer Leaf Drop
Overview:
- Host plants: linden, birch, sycamore are more susceptible
- Leaves of large shade trees drop mid-season
- Most times, this is a normal physiological growth habit for these species
- Trees drop foliage to reduce leaf surface area and subsequent water loss (reduced evapotranspiration)
- This is especially important during typical summer droughts or when water availability is limited
- When water is available again, the tree will have increased leaf drop from weight of water absorbed by leaves (partial leaf abscission will be accelerated)
- Neither tree health nor tree growth is usually affected unless the drought is extending over a long time
- Reduce plant stress to ensure that trees are healthy during & after leaf drop
Resources:
Landscape Pest Notes for Late June 2023 – PPA
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