DiseaseHigh Severity

Bacterial Leaf Scorch

Xylella fastidiosa (bacterium)

A bacterial disease affecting multiple tree species, caused by a bacterium that invades xylem cells and disrupts water transport. The disease causes characteristic marginal leaf browning and can lead to chronic decline and death over multiple years.

Peak Season: Symptoms develop mid-to-late June, progress through summer and early fall
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Bacterial leaf scorch showing marginal browning and yellowing

Identification & Symptoms

What to Look For

Irregular, scalloped browning along leaf margins beginning mid-to-late June
Brown margins may be bordered by yellow halos
Browning spreads toward midvein as season progresses
Leaves may curl and drop prematurely
Symptoms progress from older to younger leaves on branches
Newest leaves at branch tips may remain unaffected
Symptoms recur and intensify each year
Branch dieback and crown decline in chronic infections

Potential Damage

Disrupts water transport in xylem vessels
Chronic infection leads to branch dieback
Progressive crown decline over multiple years
Tree death in severe, long-term infections
Stress predisposes trees to secondary problems
Reduced aesthetic and functional value

Lifecycle

Transmitted by xylem-feeding leafhoppers. Bacteria invade and multiply in xylem vessels, blocking water transport. Symptoms develop mid-summer and progress through fall. Disease spreads systemically through tree over multiple years.

Professional Treatment Approach

1

Antibiotic injection with oxytetracycline

2

Improve tree health through proper watering and fertilization

3

Reduce environmental stress factors

4

Remove severely affected branches

5

Annual monitoring and treatment may be required

Recommended Mauget Products

Tebuject 16 (for prevention)

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against bacterial leaf scorch.

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Stemix Plus (antibiotic treatment)

Professional-grade treatment specifically effective against bacterial leaf scorch.

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Need Professional Diagnosis?

Our certified arborists can help you accurately identify tree problems and develop an effective treatment plan using Mauget's proven injection systems.

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