Question
Aspen tree.
Hello Dr. Vann, I have a mature trembling aspen on my front lawn. I am estimating it's age at 25 - 30 years, and it's approx 30' high. The bark is black and split in areas and every year I lose dozens of branches. The leaves turn brown and then the branch becomes brittle and cracks off. 3 years ago I could barely see the branches through the leaves and now I can barley see any leaves. I love this tree, is there anything I can do to save it. Thanking you in advance. PS, Newfoundland, Canada is the homeland.
AnswerCarol3:
These swellings may be an insect borer inside the branch or perhaps a canker caused from a disease organism like a fungus or bacteria. Due to the height/size of the tree, it would probably not feasible to prune out/destroy the affected branches. Curing the tree of this problem may not be an option due to the size. You may be left with only promoting vigorous growth through good irrigations and fertilization to sustain the tree for a long time and help the tree weather the problem as best as possible. Anytime the insect or disease organism is inside the wood, management becomes more of a challenge, especially if you cannot "prune out the affected areas". If you have access to a garden center/nursery, you might consider carrying them one of these branches to get them to look at and perhaps get a more accurate diagnosis.
Steve
