Minnesota’s diverse climate and ecosystems support a wide variety of tree species, which unfortunately means a number of diseases can impact these trees. Here are ten diseases that are commonly of concern for trees in Minnesota:
- Dutch Elm Disease – This disease is caused by a fungus (Ophiostoma novo-ulmi) and is spread by elm bark beetles. It’s a significant concern for American elm trees, leading to wilt and eventual death.
- Oak Wilt – This fungal disease affects oak trees, particularly red oaks. Infected trees display leaf discoloration, wilting, and can die within the same season the symptoms are noticed.
- Emerald Ash Borer – While technically an insect infestation rather than a disease, the impact of this invasive beetle is similar to a disease. It has devastated ash tree populations across the state.
- Apple Scab – A fungal disease that affects apple and crabapple trees, causing leaf spots and early leaf drop, which can lead to reduced fruit production and vitality of the trees.
- Fire Blight – A bacterial disease that affects a variety of trees and shrubs, including apple and pear trees. It leads to the blackening and death of branches, resembling fire damage.
- Pine Wilt – Caused by the pine wilt nematode and spread by the pine sawyer beetle, it affects mainly non-native pines like Scotch pine and can kill a tree within a few months.
- Bur Oak Blight – A fungal disease that has been increasingly affecting bur oaks in Minnesota. It leads to leaf browning and defoliation, typically later in the summer.
- White Pine Blister Rust – A disease caused by the fungus Cronartium ribicola, which requires two hosts to complete its life cycle: white pines and currants/gooseberries. It can be devastating to white pines, causing stem cankers and death.
- Larch Needle Disease – A disease that affects tamarack (larch) trees, caused by the fungus Meria laricis. It leads to premature needle drop, which can weaken and eventually kill the tree.
- Anthracnose – A common fungal disease that affects a wide variety of deciduous trees in Minnesota, including ash, oak, maple, and sycamore. It causes leaf spots, cupping or distortion, and premature leaf drop.
Management and prevention of these diseases typically involve cultural practices to improve tree health, careful monitoring for symptoms, removal of infected material, and sometimes the use of fungicides or other treatments. Also, in the case of diseases spread by a specific vector (like the elm bark beetle or the pine sawyer beetle), controlling the vector can be crucial.
It’s important for tree owners and city officials to stay informed and work with local extension services or professional arborists to manage tree health and disease prevention effectively.
For over a decade, Erik Renstrom, along with his company Renstrom Tree Service have been servicing the Minneapols / St. Paul area, helping home owners and businesses with their trees. Whether you have a tree that has fallen on your house or need storm damage cleanup, we are here for you, 24-7. Call Erik today! (651) 349-4194
