Question
I have a very large Red-tip that has started foaming (white) at the base of the trunk everytime it rains. I have lived here for 5 years and I have never seen it do this before.

I do have a leaf spot problem that developed last year during an especially wet spring and since the tree is so large it is impossible for me to spray it. I just carefully kept the fallen leaves cleaned up to prevent reinfection.

Could the 2 be related?

Answer
Mullane:
These two problems are not related. This foaming is probably a disease called "slime flux" and is caused by a bacteria.  Of course the famous leaf spot is a fungus (Entomosporium). Replacement may be an option.  There are some great choices out there.

STeve