Maple Tree Black Spots

Question

This tree is 14 years old and has these spots on it this year. There is another maple in the same yard much smaller but also has similar spots. What is the remedy?

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Answer 1

Maple tree fungal leaf spots are common and usually will not kill the tree. By the time symptoms are noticed, it's usually too late for fungal sprays. The best remedy is prevention with a regular fungal spray beginning at spring bud break and two weeks after that. Right now, raking the dropped leaves and disposing of them can help prevent the spread next year. Pruning to open up the canopy can improve air flow and help avoid black spot diseases.

Maple tar spot is common in Illinois and I've included information below as well as other black spot diseases.

http://hyg.ipm.illinois.edu/article.php?id=1037

http://www.ladybug.uconn.edu/FactSheets/leaf-spot-disease-of-trees-and-shrubs.php

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/maple/maple-tar-spot-disease.htm

https://hortnews.extension.iastate.edu/2009/6-3/leafblister.html