Birch trees are susceptible to a variety of diseases in Minnesota.
Minnesota is home to the European, paper and river birch tree species. Birch diseases can cause reduced vigor, aesthetic damage and susceptibility to insect damage in these species. Early identification and control are vital for treating birch tree diseases in Minnesota. Does this Spark an idea?
Types
Anthracnose and birch dieback are both serious diseases of birch tree leaves in Minnesota. The anthracnose fungus favors free moisture on leaves and rainy and windy weather conditions for infection, while branch dieback favors severe frosts, poor soil conditions and poor soil drainage for infection.
Identification
Symptoms of anthracnose on birch consist of black, brown, or purple leaf spots, leaf drop and distorted leaf growth, according to the United States Department of Agriculture Forest Service. Symptoms of the birch dieback consist of dead branches, root damage and tree death. However, the University of Minnesota Extension states that birch trees are short-lived and tree death can be confused with birch dieback.
Prevention/Solution
Pruning infected branches and fungicidal control are effective methods of control for anthracnose, according to the USDA Forest Service. Control for birch dieback consists of regular fertilization and the use of organic mulch to help keep the soil moist.
Tags: birch dieback, birch tree, diseases Minnesota, Forest Service, poor soil, tree death