BE ON THE LOOKOUT—BEECH LEAF DISEASE

Beech leaf disease (BLD) has been detected in Otsego County! Beech Leaf Disease causes decline and death in native and ornamental beech trees.

 First identified in the United States in Ohio in 2012, BLD has spread rapidly, and is now found in 15 states in the northeast. The cause and mechanics of BLD are still not well understood, but it is associated with a nematode, Litylenchus crenatae mccanii that seems to damage the leaves while they’re still in the buds. The most obvious symptom of BLD is striping on the leaves. These are best observed by looking up at the leaves from underneath. Impacted leaves often have a leathery texture, and will eventually curl, wither and yellow.

BLD can kill young trees in 2-3 years, and mature  trees in 6-10. American beech is an important component of our forests and provides food for many species of wildlife.

 For more information on beech leaf disease, visit https://dec.ny.gov/nature/forests-trees/forest-health/forest-health-beech-leaf-disease#:~:text=Symptoms%20of%20BLD%20include%3A,few%20leaves%20may%20be%20affected