Beech Leaf Disease (BLD) is emerging as the biggest threat to our trees since Emerald Ash Borer. 

As we have communicated over the past year, BLD is a relatively new disease of native and European beech trees. It was first described in Ohio in 2012. Since then, it has moved north and east, and was found in all counties in southeastern Pennsylvania in 2022. BLD appears to be caused by a nematode that lives in the leaf bud and leaf tissue causing leaf distortion, leaf bud death, and eventually the decline and death of the host tree.

As the problem continues to spread and researchers are figuring out the biology of the disease, arborists are tasked with trying to save clients’ specimen beech trees. While we have not seen positive BLD examples in our service area, we want to be ready with the latest information and the best tools available to treat it. Two treatment protocols have gained some traction in hard-hit areas: soil or stem applications of a phosphite-containing product, and a foliar spray (applied to the leaves) designed to kill nematodes. Each of these methods has pros and cons, so we urge you to set up an appointment with us to discuss the best treatment to protect your trees. As always,we will provide you with the latest research and treatment information so that we can save our beech trees in an effective and responsible manner.