Hi About 5% of the leaves on my Emperor One maple are brown and curling on the edges. It has been in my garden for 3 years. Early in summer my 4 year old small acer palmatum died branch by branch. Do you think this is a disease. The problem is spread out through the tree from the bottom branches to the top. thanks!
Good morning Yvette, it looks like heat stress to me. I assume you had the severe heat as others did in Canada this year. So I would ensure it is watered, but not too much, as when the leaves drop it doesn't need it and when the leaves drop in the next few weeks, cut out any dead, diseased or damaged branches. Then leave it alone for the Autumn and Winter. Next Spring should see it put out new growth. Make sure you clean secetaurs with rubbing alcohol after the pruning btw. Do not be tempted to feed either. Next Spring start a regular watering regime.
@yvette You are just up the road from us as we are in Chilliwack. We have had the what now appears to be the driest spring / summer on record with no sign of any regular rain for at least another 2 - 3 weeks. It has been very hard on many plants including Japanese maples as they have such a shallow root system. The image you included definitely shows a tree in distress due to the dry hot weather.
thank you so much for your replies. I'm so relieved to know my tree will be ok and next year I will be more diligent in watering. so much appreciate your help!
