Beech Leaf Disease – What You Need to Know

At Arborist Enterprises, we’re dedicated to keeping your trees healthy and thriving. That’s why we want to bring your attention to a relatively new and increasingly concerning threat to beech trees in our area — Beech Leaf Disease (BLD). This disease, caused by a microscopic nematode, is spreading rapidly and can have devastating consequences for these beautiful and valuable trees. As your trusted tree care experts, we’re here to equip you with the knowledge you need to identify, understand, and address this emerging problem.

What Exactly Is Beech Leaf Disease?

Beech Leaf Disease affects American and European beech trees as well as their ornamental cultivars. It’s caused by a foliar nematode, scientifically known as Litylenchus crenatae mccannii. These microscopic worms invade the leaves of beech trees, disrupting their normal function and ultimately leading to a decline in the tree’s overall health.

The disease was first identified in Ohio in 2012 and has since spread to numerous other regions in the eastern United States. Unfortunately, the team at Arborist Enterprises has positively identified BLD within our service area, making it a pressing concern for homeowners in our community.

Why Should You Be Concerned?

Beech trees are a vital part of our landscapes and ecosystems. They provide shade, beauty, and habitat for wildlife. The loss of beech trees due to BLD would have significant ecological and economic consequences.

The progression of BLD is particularly alarming. Initial leaf damage leads to a gradual reduction in the tree’s vigor, making it more susceptible to other diseases and pests. In severe cases, BLD can ultimately lead to tree mortality, especially in younger trees.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Beech Leaf Disease

Early detection is key to managing BLD and protecting your beech trees. The sooner you identify the symptoms, the sooner you can take action to mitigate the disease’s impact. Here’s what to look for:

• Dark stripes or bands: The most characteristic symptom of BLD is the appearance of dark green or black stripes or bands between the veins of the leaves. These bands are typically most visible in early spring, as the leaves are first emerging, and can be seen most clearly when looking up into the canopy with light behind the tree. These bands are caused by the nematodes feeding on the leaf tissue.
• Thickening and raised areas: As the disease progresses and nematode activity continues to damage the leaves, you may notice thickening or raised areas between their veins. These areas often distort the leaf’s shape.
• Leaf curling and distortion: Infected leaves tend to become curled, distorted, and leathery in texture. This distortion is a result of the nematodes disrupting the leaf’s normal growth and development.
• Reduced leaf and bud production: In advanced stages of BLD, the tree’s ability to produce new leaves and buds is significantly affected, as the damage to its existing leaves will have compromised its ability to generate enough energy to sustain itself. This damage can lead to a thinning canopy and poor overall health, leaving the tree susceptible to other issues.

It’s important to note that these symptoms may not be uniform across the entire tree. You may see some branches with severely affected leaves while others appear relatively healthy. This is why it’s crucial to carefully inspect all parts of your beech trees for any signs of BLD.

How Does Beech Leaf Disease Spread?

BLD is primarily spread by the travel of the microscopic nematodes that cause it. These nematodes overwinter in the buds of infected trees, emerging in the spring to infect new leaves.

While the exact mechanisms of spread are still being researched, the following have been identified as contributors:

• Vectors: Birds, insects, and other animals may play a role in transporting nematodes from infected trees to healthy ones. These vectors can carry the nematodes on their bodies or in their digestive systems.
• Environmental factors: Wind and splashing rainwater can contribute to the dispersal of nematode eggs and larvae by carrying them over short distances. Upon landing, they may infect nearby trees or other parts of the same tree.
• Human activity: The movement of infected plant material, such as beech saplings or firewood, can also spread the disease. As such, it’s crucial to avoid transporting beech wood or plants from areas known to be infested with BLD.

The Impact of BLD on Your Trees

The impact of BLD on beech trees can be significant and far-reaching. The disease can lead to:

• Canopy thinning: As infected leaves drop prematurely, the tree’s canopy becomes thinner and less dense. This reduces the amount of sunlight that the tree can capture, affecting its ability to photosynthesize and produce energy.
• Reduced vigor: The loss of leaves and the disruption of normal leaf function weaken the tree, making it more susceptible to other diseases and pests. A stressed tree is less able to defend itself against these threats.
• Mortality: In severe cases, BLD can lead to the death of the tree, especially in young or already weakened trees. The cumulative effect of repeated defoliation and reduced vigor can eventually overwhelm the tree’s ability to survive.

What Can You Do? Treatment Options From Arborist Enterprises

While there is currently no cure for Beech Leaf Disease, Arborist Enterprises has been working diligently to develop and implement effective treatment protocols to aid in the preservation of these apex hardwoods. We understand the urgency of the situation and are committed to providing our clients with the best possible care for their beech trees.

Our recommendations include scheduling an appointment with one of our certified arborists to properly identify the presence of BLD and propose a customized treatment plan. Early detection and intervention are crucial for maximizing the effectiveness of our treatments.

Timing is also critical. The earlier in the growing season that treatment is initiated, the more effective it is likely to be. This is because the nematodes are most active during the spring and early summer, when the leaves are emerging.

Our treatment options may include:

• Systemic  injections: Systemic injections involve injecting a specialized solution directly into the tree’s trunk. This solution is then transported throughout the tree’s vascular system, delivering targeted treatment to the infected leaves.
• Foliar sprays: Foliar sprays involve applying a protective solution directly to the leaves of the tree. This solution can help reduce nematode populations and protect the leaves from further damage.
• Fertilization: Applying fertilizers can boost the tree’s natural defenses and improve its overall health and vigor. A healthy tree is better able to withstand the effects of BLD.

It’s important to emphasize that these treatments should be prescribed and applied by a certified arborist. The specific treatment plan will depend on the severity of the infection, the age and health of the tree, and other factors. Our certified arborists will carefully assess your trees and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan.

Take Action Today!

Early, decisive action is the best way to save a tree from Beech Leaf Disease. If you suspect that your beech trees may be infected with BLD, contact Arborist Enterprises today to request an estimate on options for diagnosis and treatment. We will determine the most appropriate course of action for your trees’ condition.

We also encourage you to spread the word about Beech Leaf Disease. Consider sharing this information with your neighbors and friends, and encourage them to be on the lookout for the symptoms of BLD. By working together, we can protect our valuable beech trees for future generations.