Hi there, looking for advice. Our verigated maple tree has aphids (we think). For the last few years some of the leaves turn brown along the edges and curl up. It's only early June and they have started already. How can I treat the tree without killing my family or the Hosta garden that sits at the base of the tree. Prefer something organic or at least as people friendly as I can get. It's a mature and very big tree. I'm thinking I can put some dish soap in the attachment that I have for the hose and spray it from the ground upwards and get underneath the leaves. Do you think that will do the trick? Please advise. It would be heartbreaking to lose that beautiful tree. Regards, Charlene
Might not even need the dishsoap, maybe try knocking the Aphids out of the tree with water pressure. I wouldn't think you could lose you very big mature Maple tree to Aphids. If your tree is in a condition that worries you about losing it, maybe post a pic. Jim
Hello Charlene, I wonder which maple you are inquiring about. It is a Harlequin Maple (Acer platanoides 'Drummondii')? Do not consider applying any control methods until you have diagnosed the problem. If in fact you have aphids, you will also notice the sticky honeydew excretions that are a sign that they are feeding. Look for this and the insects themselves first. If you are inquiring about a harlequin maple, I have seen the very symptoms that you have described on a specimen at the Niagara Parks Botanical Gardens in Niagara Falls, Ontario. It was an annual event, and usually occurred during times of extreme heat and drought. It is called leaf scorch and can sometimes be prevented by providing adequate water during these weather conditions. I am not sure of what the weather has been like in Ontario, however this is possible, even this early, especially if your tree is in an exposed site and is not being watered regularly. Raakel
