Question
Locust Tree Leaves
We've had issues with this tree for years, but now that we have a beautiful new deck we'd really like to use it without having to blow the deck clean several times a day. Our tree makes a mess straight through from spring to when all the leaves are gone. the leaf drop is diffuse, so there's no one branch or area that loses all its leaves. The ones that come off have at least some yellow on them. We notice the deck gets an awful lot of tiny (gnat-sized) green bugs and wonder if it's these insects that are doing the damage. I've read articles about leaves coming off locust trees late in the summer, as a means to conserve water, but haven't found anything that addresses our issue. Do you have any advice? We're being barraged by leaves, and our new deck is calling us!!
AnswerHi Debbie;
If you are concerned about the insects, try to take a closeup photo and send to me. Try to get as close as you can, then review your images on your computer to be sure that it is in focus, then send. I have a "bug expert" next to my office that may be able to ID. On the leaf drop, leaf shed can occur if the tree gets thirsty enough, so you may have to consider some supplemental water to keep the leaves on. This is especially true of some birches and willows.
Regards
Steve
