Why Is My River Birch’s Leaves Drying, Browning And Falling Off. 3 Weeks Ago, The Leaves Were Green

Question

The tree’s leaves were green just under a month ago and are now all dry and brown

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Answer 1

I notice that the braces are still on a decently mature tree. Typically, these are removed once the tree is established. If this is a fresh planting (less than a couple of months) then I would be inclined to say that it succumbed to an infection. This is common with fresh plantings that are overwatered just a bit at the time of planting.

Otherwise, even under proper condition, blights can take over and kill trees, seemingly, almost instantly.

The most common causes for this will be Anthracnose and Tree Borers. Both will exhibit these symptoms.

Here are some articles that will help:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/alcoholic-flux-in-trees.htm

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

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/birch/planting-river-birch-trees.htm