Sycamore Anthracnose

When treating trees for sycamore anthracnose, the best option is a double play: treat the disease and restore the tree’s health. But patience is necessary because this fungus is the most serious disease of the sycamore tree. It usually takes two growing seasons to actually see a healthier sycamore.

One sign of sycamore anthracnose is if leaves drop in spring and regrows in summer. This unnatural cycle drains the tree’s health and a weakened tree is at risk for further damage. A nitrogen supplement applied in spring at the base of the tree’s trunk promotes tree health.

Sycamore anthracnose treatment

The summer heat naturally stops growth of the anthracnose fungus. During this time, remove any diseased branches and completely remove cankered areas. These areas hold fungus spores that will infect the tree the following spring. This allows more sunlight and air movement through the remaining branches. Summer is also the time to continue strengthening the tree by watering and fertilizing.

In autumn, clean up fallen leaves to prevent the possibility of the fungus overwintering. You can also remove any infected branches and cankered areas that might have been overlooked in summer. Discard leaves, branches and cankered areas away from the tree.

The dry winter months can weaken trees and increase disease symptoms. If there is no snow and the temperature is above freezing, trees can be irrigated. Water the tree early in the day to allow time to soak into the ground before the temperature drops overnight.

Fungicides specifically developed to treat sycamore anthracnose can be applied or injected around the tree trunk. Small needles are better than drilled holes for application of the fungicide. The least invasive treatment is always better.

If your sycamore tree shows symptoms of anthracnose infection, contact SprayTech, Castle Rock tree service specialists, at 720-248-0000 to discuss identification and treatment options.