American SweetGum Tree dying

Discussion in 'Trees' started by Mak, Apr 25, 2020.

  1. Mak

    Mak Apprentice Gardener

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    Hi all, I am new to this forum and new to gardening altogether. I have found myself in a situation where we have bought a large property with a large garden but know very little about gardening.

    So here is the exam question, we have an American SweetGum tree that suddenly dried up within 3 months of us moving in. I have no idea what has gone wrong with it as I tried the usual novice stuff by watering it regularly but to no use. I have now noticed that it is showing big fungus like patches all over and its leaves seem like burnt out. I am truly devastated as I loved that tree and how it changes its colours and I am feeling now it may be growing dead n will slip through our hands. Please please can you anyone provide any guidance what I can do to save it?
     

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  2. pete

    pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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    Personally I dont think the white spots are a problem, maybe just lichen growing on the bark, do you have a close up of the new leaves that are forming.

    I dont think you need to water a tree of that size, it would only be necessary during a really long drought.
     
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    • Mak

      Mak Apprentice Gardener

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      Thank you for your prompt reply and yes agree, I didn't think that tree had watering issues.

      Regarding the new leaves coming out ... this is the trouble that I do not see any new leaves coming out. As you will see in the pics that remaining leaves are giving a look as if these have been burnt out. All other trees in the garden have new leaves but this tree has no new leaves forming.

      IMG_2698.jpg IMG_2697.jpg IMG_2696 2.jpg
       
    • NigelJ

      NigelJ Total Gardener

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      I think that a visit from a tree surgeon is needed to give a professional opinion. If the leaves died and stayed on the tree over winter then that is not good.
       
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      • pete

        pete Growing a bit of this and a bit of that....

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        Usually dead leaves remaining attached suggests dead wood.
        Apart from hedging that is.

        I'm not sure when Liquidambar comes into leaf, it might be a late one, have a scratch of some of the branches and look for green under the bark.
         
      • HarmonyArb

        HarmonyArb I know sh!t about trees

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        Hi Mak

        It's quite difficult to diagnose tree health issues over the internet. It's similar to using Google to look up your sore throat - it could be anything! I wrote a little article on diagnosing tree ill health you might want to take a look at: Tree Health Diagnosis - A self help guide

        Basically, it could really be anything. A site visit from a reputable arborist or arboricultural consultant should offer you some answers.
         
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