Question
Our sunset maple is approximately 15 years old and we live in Central Ohio.  The bark has vertical splitting and large crevices making the bark peel away.  In mid-July the leaves began to turn red like it does in the fall.  Some of the leaves have black irregular flat spots and others have raised tiny bumps.  I cannot see any type of insects.  Any idea what the problem could be?  

Thanks for your help.

Answer
Julie:
Sounds like your maple has a few issues. Can you send me a photo of a group of leaves that have both types of leaf spots? May be best if I could see them to have a better idea.  Don't be afraid to get real close to the leaves for your shot. Be sure to review it on your computer to be sure it is in focus before you get ready to send.

Vertical splitting can be caused by some diseases or non disease things.  I would like a photo of that also, but you may have to send a second question in order to send a second photo.  This may give me a better ide what the situation is.

Regards
Steve