Weeping willow

[mwslax]

Hello:
I am looking for some assistance re: my weeping willow tree. I have six trees. Four are showing signs of disease as depicted in photos. The other 2 are quite healthy. I am on the Eastern Shore of Maryland where it has been very hot this summer, particularly the last few weeks (mid 90’s and very humid). Is there a recommended treatment for my trees, shall i just water more regularly (I am not watering at all now), or just allow things to run its course as we transition from summer to cooler Fall weather? I am concerned as the trees have dropped many of there leaves and I thought its too early for that. Thank you.

 

[Oliver Buckle]

If you look through the forum I think you will find a few posts similar to yours, cherry and pear trees losing their leaves; and I know the silver birch next door is shedding leaves as though it is Autumn. Heat and drought are hard on trees, and losing a few leaves is a good way to conserve water. Add to that that trees that are under stress like that are more prone to attack from whatever is about.

You don't say how big/old your trees are, willows can suck up a lot of water, a newly planted one can take ten gallons twice a week, but that is before it gets its root system established. If they have been there for a few years I would probably leave them to get on with it and wait for a change in the weather. If you are going to intervene be prepared to just leave the hose running for a bit two or three times a week and wet thoroughly right out to the edge of the canopy. A half done job may be worse than nothing in the long run, encouraging root systems to stay in a confined area.

 

[cpp gardener]

Unless they are small trees, there is probably nothing you can do to control the leafspots. Unless it happens several years in a row it won't do any permanent damage.