Top Tree Diseases of North Florida: What Every Homeowner Should Know

Tallahassee, a designated Tree City USA community, is known for its abundance of towering trees which define the city’s landscape and line its canopy roads. According to the City of Tallahassee, Florida’s capital not only boasts one of the most diverse ranges of tree species in the country - it also has one of the highest tree coverage percentages in the United States (a whopping 55%). Unfortunately, these magnificent trees face constant threats from diseases that can weaken or even kill them. Whether you’re a homeowner, a landscaper or just someone who loves the outdoors, understanding the most common tree diseases of North Florida is crucial to maintaining the health and vitality of our beloved trees.

Laurel Wilt Disease

Laurel wilt is the most destructive and invasive tree disease in North Florida. Spread by the non-native Redbay Ambrosia Beetle, this fungus results in a restriction of water flow to the infected tree, causing the leaves to rapidly wilt. Laurel wilt was first documented in Florida in 2005, and by 2017 it had caused widespread damage to tree and shrub species in every county in the state. The most obvious signs of laurel wilt include wilting and yellowing of leaves, branch dieback and dark streaks or discoloration within the outer layer of a tree's trunk. As the disease progresses, the tree may exhibit a rapid decline and die within a few months. When it establishes in a new area, nearly all mature trees of those species may be killed within 3 to 5 years.

Oak Wilt Disease

The majestic oak tree is an icon in many communities, marking historical sites or serving as gathering places. This beloved tree is susceptible to several diseases, the most common being oak wilt, another devastating tree disease in North Florida caused by a fungus which attacks its vascular system. Signs of oak wilt include wilting and browning of leaves followed by rapid defoliation and branch dieback. On red oaks, the symptoms can appear quickly, while white oaks show a much slower progression. Timely intervention and monitoring are crucial for managing this disease effectively and preventing loss of the tree.

Citrus Greening

Citrus greening is a severe bacterial disease that devastates citrus trees. Primarily spread by the Asian citrus psyllid, a tiny insect that transmits the disease when it feeds on citrus tree sap. Signs include yellowing or mottling of leaves, which often appears asymmetrical and persists despite fertilization, and poor fruit development. Affected fruit may be small, hard and misshapen, and trees may exhibit stunted growth and branch dieback. Leaves show blotchy yellow patterns that can resemble nutrient deficiencies. The yellowing is typically uneven, with patches of green and yellow. Over time, trees affected by citrus greening experience dieback of branches and can eventually die if left untreated.

Southern Blight

Southern blight is a fungal disease that spreads rapidly and affects a wide range of plants, including vegetables, ornamental plants and some crops. It thrives in warm, moist conditions therefore is common in North Florida. The disease is characterized by the appearance of fuzzy white fungal growth on the soil surface or around the lower stem. Small, round, tan to brown structures resembling mustard seeds form on the soil surface or the plant stem. Plants infected with southern blight often exhibit symptoms such as wilting, yellowing of leaves, and stem rot, which can lead to rapid plant collapse and eventual death.

Anthracnose

Anthracnose is a fungal disease that causes leaf spots, blight and dieback in various trees, including oaks and maples. Signs of anthracnose include dark lesions on leaves, stems or fruit, often surrounded by a yellow halo. On fruits, the lesions can expand and cause the fruit to rot. Symptoms of anthracnose include yellowing of leaves, twig and stem dieback, premature leaf drop and bud damage. High moisture levels and warm temperatures common in North Florida provide the ideal environment for the development of anthracnose.

Ask the Experts

Paying close attention to the health of your trees is essential, as early detection of diseases can prevent the spread to other plants and ensure the longevity of your landscape. At Miller’s Tree Service, we believe that the health of your plants and trees is the cornerstone of a beautiful and thriving landscape in Tallahassee. Our plant and tree health care services are designed to ensure that your greenery remains vibrant, strong, and resilient against diseases and pests. We offer a comprehensive range of health care services tailored to meet the unique needs of our region and are knowledgeable about the common tree diseases of North Florida. Contact our plant and tree health care experts for assistance today.