Common Birch Tree Diseases
Birch trees are wonderful to grow on your property, whether in your garden or front lawn; unfortunately, birch trees are prone to a number of problems. They make great landscaping plants, as they provide good shade for both other plants and your home, so if you want to be able to grow them healthy, you should learn about these issues and how to fight and prevent them.
Basically all trees are prone to certain diseases, and the birch is no exception. One of the most common problems comes about as a result of two different types of aphids, the European birch and common birch varieties. These are insects that specifically infest birch trees. You can expect to see mold appear on the trunk and branches if your tree is affected by aphids. There are different types of sprays that can be used to treat a birch, such as orthene, diazinon, dimethoate and malathion. Make sure to visit a local nursery to ask about these if you notice your tree is infested by aphids.
Leaf blister can occur as a result of a fungal infection. The birch tree's leaves will begin to curl and show red blisters if affected, or you can expect to see yellow blisters. To solve the problem of this ailment, you will have to remove all the affected leaves and burn them. Afterward, the tree can be sprayed with Feram or Maneb prior to the new growth season.
The bronze birch borer is another pest that attacks birch trees, particularly the European white variety. During the winter season, it hides under the bark, waiting to attack the tree as the female insects lay eggs in the bark's cracks. After the new hatchlings appear, the insects chew up the inner bark of the birch tree, which kills the branches and can kill the entire tree if not treated. To solve this problem, you should cut away the affected branches. As a preventative measure, make sure to give your birch tree extra water during drier times, and keep mulch at its base.
