Maple Tree Has Sparse Leaves Black Like Mold Growing On Bark

Question

Our sugar maple has Sparse leaves and a black like mold growing up the bark. What is it and how can i treat it? Thanks

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Answer 1

I see tree lichens and moss, which are not harmful, and usually grow in moist shade. I also see holes in the tree which can be from wood boring insects or birds trying to get sap. The black could be sooty mold growing on sap or insect honeydew. It also could be from bacterial diseases or canker. These articles should help decipher the problems:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/maple/what-causes-maple-decline.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/wetwood-bleeding-trees.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/tree-borer-insects.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/maple/maple-tree-oozing-sap.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/fungus-lichen/treatment-tree-lichen.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/foliage/moss/moss-on-plants.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/hypoxylon-canker-fungus.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/tgen/tree-disease-identification-sooty-canker-fungus.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/how-to-get-rid-of-sooty-mold.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/maple/planting-sugar-maple-trees.htm

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/maple/maple-tree-pruning.htm