This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged. It is also planted as a landscape tree in its native range. Twisted or gnarled branches or twigs. It can be very difficult to treat, but it doesn’t typically kill mature, established trees. Some of the most reliable signs of infection include small, yellow leaves throughout the canopy and the presence of depressed cankers on the trunk and primary branches. The tree uses a natural process called compartmentalization as a defense against decay. Trees are adapted to a wide range of climate zones. A fungal disease, sycamore anthracnose typically affects the young shoots and leaves of a tree. Special to The News Journal. Sycamore trees are vulnerable to diseases and insect pests, just like almost every variety of tree you can plant. Most trees growing near buildings cause no damage. They drop those huge, beautiful leaves every autumn, covering the ground below. Optimum conditions for growth. Overall though these are usually minor irritants to the homeowner if the tree is properly cared for, e.g. It has an upright, pyramidal crown when young and as it matures develops a rounded, irregular form, with a scaffold of large diameter branches. LOS ANGELES AREA: Bel Air, Brentwood, Santa Monica, Pacific Palisades, Malibu, Beverly Hills, West Los Angeles, Hollywood Hills, Hollywood, Hancock Park, Larchmont Village ORANGE COUNTY AREA: Laguna Beach, Anaheim, Huntington Beach, Newport Beach, San Juan Capistrano, Trabuco Canyon, Coto de Caza , Rancho Santa Margarita, San Clemente, Corona del Mar, Dana Point. Bob Dluzen. It grows best in moist soils that do not dry out. My search found that there are many certified arborists to choose from in our area.It appears that the tree has been receiving reasonable cultural care. The sycamore's potentially enormous size makes it best suited for large-scale landscapes. Once a … In some cases, you may see portions of the canopy defoliate completely. The bark is smooth and pale with patches of tan and gray, sometimes tinged with pink and green; the bark has been likened to army camouflage. Other sycamore trees in our neighborhood do the same thing, too. Just be sure to do so promptly to give your trees the best possible chance at a recovery. Roots are fibrous. I have direct experience with this devastating disease which is killing off dozens of mature California Sycamore trees at our new park in Burbank. A sycamore tree in South Pasadena in 1886. Dear All, Our neighbours have a huge sycamore tree in their garden. Because of these factors, homeowners taking good care of their trees are usually amply rewarded.Your Sycamore tree is probably a California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa), a widely planted residential tree for its beauty and shade which can live for over 150 years. It has an aggressive root system. While generally easy to get along with, Sycamores do have their problems at times, namely Anthracnose and Powdery Mildew (see http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/GARDEN/PLANTS/sycamore.html). In a land of few trees, the sycamore stood out. Foliage that develops in late spring and early summer shouldn’t become infected as warmer, drier weather suppresses anthracnose. Frost damage is nothing to worry about; it turns the entire leaf brown, but the problem passes as new leaves form. So, in spite of your misgivings about the motivations of a tree service company, we would strongly advise that you have your tree inspected and evaluated by a certified arborist, probably a consulting arborist to provide a neutral 3rd party evaluation. It has an 8 1/2 foot circumference, and many large branches have grown over my house. Agriculture and Natural Resources, University of California. We’ll explain a few of the most noteworthy diseases that afflict these trees, so you can keep an eye out for the first signs of illness and get your trees the prompt care they need. Behold, the beautiful, but problematic sycamore tree. Cordate (heart-shaped) large oval leaves that are up to 6” (15 cm) long and with an elongated tip. Overview. Read on for information on sycamore tree problems. It’s fairly messy, shedding a generous supply of leaves, seed balls, twigs and strips of bark. View Comments. However, today as we begin to construct the park these mature trees are gone because of the borer beetle infestation. The tree sits on the boundary between the properties. Another serious ailment, this disease often causes trees to die within about 24 months of the first visible symptoms. Cottonwood Tree Problems. I am not sure how old it is, but my guess is that it is at least as old as the house, which is 65 years old. This fungal disease turns the leaves brown along the veins. Prune back diseased branches with sharp, sterilized pruning tools. Formations of dead or … During compartmentalization, the tree produces three zones to help prevent invasion and spread of the fungus. Platanus racemosa is native to California and Baja California, where it grows in riparian areas, canyons, floodplains, at springs and seeps, and along streams and rivers in several types of habitats. Sycamore anthracnose is one of the most common diseases that commonly affect California sycamore trees. Your watering schedule may be sufficient, but we recommend that you speak with the arborist about caring for your tree during the drought as well, especially since you have exposed roots.I hope that this information is helpful. Sycamore anthracnose is one of the most common diseases that commonly affect California sycamore trees. The most unique feature of the sycamore tree is its camouflage-looking bark. It has large lobed maple-like leaves. The sycamore tree is an immense durable tree with a rapid growth rate and expansive root system. It can be very difficult to treat, but it doesn’t typically kill mature, established trees. But unfortunately, despite all of these characteristics that make California sycamores so popular, they’re also susceptible to a few diseases. If you have an account, then sign in now! Choose United States from the pull down menu, then type in the zip code and radius of interest (25 miles should be more than ample) and search again. The sycamore tree is often divided near the ground into several secondary trunks, very free from branches. Certification of arborists is by the International Society of Arborists (ISA). Like leaf spot disease, powdery mildew affects many different species; it isn’t a particularly specific pathogen. Another peculiarity is the way the leaves grow sticky, green buds. Sycamore anthracnose is most commonly observed following wet springs. If young leaves turn brown and wilt, your tree suffers from either frost damage or sycamore antracnose. Huge Sycamore Tree Problem. Unlike sycamore anthracnose and canker stain, which primarily affect sycamore trees, leaf spot disease is caused by more open-minded pathogens (fungi). I believe the only fertilizer it has received would have been when the lawn was fertilized, which hasn't occurred for probably ten years.Sycamore tree branches over roofMy question concerns the branches that are growing over my house. Experts advise that you keep your tree healthy, with good cultural practices, as a first line of defense against problems with sycamore trees. Sycamore canker stain is a fungal disease that affects sycamores and London plane trees in California. It’s easy to understand their popularity: They often exhibit attractive fall color, and they have some of the most attractive tree bark around. From the pictures of the overhanging branches, it would seem that an assessment of the health and well-being of your Sycamore by a professional arborist is appropriate. There would no doubt be different neighborhoods without our trees. Large roots are visible on the surface of the lawn. Fertilizing established trees is usually not necessary. We conceptualized the park three years ago using the existing Sycamore trees as the primary shade tree. Trees on residential properties can add value to the property, provide a pleasant setting for the house, neighborhood and community, shade from the hot summer sun, and a “sense of place”. Fortunately, the sycamore trees will continue to produce additional leaves and shoots through early summer. It was here when I moved in, which was 35 years ago -- and it was very large then.The tree has received water from the lawn that surrounds it, although I am now cutting back to watering only every two weeks due to the drought, which I understand should be sufficient for the tree. Sycamore antracnose is more serious. Dry soil can lead to a short life for this native riparian tree. This will bring up a list of certified arborists who work in our area as well as distinguishing who that are associated with and/or an independent consultant. It is caused by Xylella fastidiosa , a bacterial pathogen (disease-causing organism) with … https://greenarborists.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/10/sycamore.png, https://greenarborists.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/logo.png, © 2020 Copyright - Evergreen Arborist Consultants, Asian Citrus Psyllids Threaten Southern California Trees, Pests That Threaten Citrus Trees of Southern California, give your friends at Evergreen Arborist Consultants a call, Bees and Avocado Trees: The Power of Pollinators. Courtesy of the USC Libraries - California Historical Society Collection. But there is a better choice: a sycamore that doesn't have these problems. This disease cannot be prevented, but removal of infected limbs will extend the life of the tree. Once on line at the ISA page, to find an arborist in our area, use the Search by location function. Sycamore Tree Report. While the independent consultant's consultation is probably close to a given fee, you should be able to request an estimate from any tree maintenance company for their proposed work. Trees can be pollarded to develop a lower canopy. While generally easy to get along with, Sycamores do have their problems at times, namely Anthracnose and Powdery Mildew (see http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/GARDEN/PLANTS/sycamore. It has not been pruned except occasionally to keep it out of the power lines. The California sycamore tolerates many soil textures including acidic, alkaline, compacted, and wet. But in some cases, subsidence and structural damage can be linked to tree roots. The tree is at least 3 storeys high and towers above both properties. Job site: Residence. We’ll have one of our ISA-certified arborists visit your property, inspect the tree in question, and then provide a recommended course of action. Anonymous users messages may be delayed. Post by charlie76 » Sun Sep 15, 2013 1:47 pm. While the cost of professional consultation is not insubstantial, the payback in peace-of-mind and protection of your investment in the tree and house could be substantial. Avoiding Problems with Sycamore Trees. It sits approximately 4 meters from our property and a 7 or 8 meters from their property. The California sycamore (Platanus racemosa) is an excellent example, as it not only reaches heights in excess of 80 feet, but it has some of the largest leaves of any tree native to the U.S. California sycamores grow wild along the southeastern coast of the state, but they’re often planted by homeowners, landscapers, and commercial property managers, so you can see them just about anywhere. Sycamore is a fast-growing deciduous tree reaching 30 to 40 feet tall. Because the 1/4- to 1/2-inch insects don't bother healthy trees, their presence indicates that your sycamore is under stress. Many of the largest tree species native to California are conifers, but there are a few big broadleaf species that also call the Sunshine State home. The exact nature of the illness caused will vary based on which fungi is attacking a given tree, but most produce relatively similar symptoms: Numerous yellow to brown spots appearing on the leaves. The leaf edges are slightly serrated. Spreading limbs at the top make an irregular, open head. The modern use for a number of the species in this family is to provide shade in populated areas like parks and sidewalks.Figure 1 Full height image of … watering to maintain its health, and some pruning to provide for appropriate growth.However, our research find that Sycamores are known to experience a phenomenon called "Summer Branch Drop". Common name: California sycamore; Western sycamoreScientific name: Platanus racemosa 1Family: PlatanaceaeThis family of flowering plants includes eight species of tall trees native to temperate and subtropical regions including the London Planetree and the American sycamore. You are currently not signed in. Characterized by the presence of a white, powdery substance on the leaves and new shoots, powdery mildew usually kills the leaves it infects. Platanus racemosa is a species of plane tree known by several common names, including California sycamore, western sycamore, California plane tree, and in North American Spanish aliso. Special to The Detroit News. Most sycamores should have a good canopy of leaves by late June or early July. Help and Advice from the Help Desk of the Master Gardeners of Contra CostaClient's Request for Information and Advice:65 year old Sycamore treeI live in central Contra Costa County and have a very large Sycamore tree in my front yard. The ample moisture gives the fungus a chance to disperse, and the new leaves provide an easy and readily available food source for the fungus (mature leaves typically manage to fight off infection more effectively than young leaves do). Your Sycamore tree is probably a California Sycamore (Platanus racemosa), a widely planted residential tree for its beauty and shade which can live for over 150 years. At … Western Sycamore is a species of plane tree known by several other common names, including California sycamore, California plane, and Aliso. What is wrong and how should I treat it? These trees grow throughout the U.S. and make pollen in the spring. A fungal disease, sycamore anthracnose typically affects the young shoots and leaves of a tree. Are Sycamores of this size safe growing over a house, or should I have those branches pruned back?I hesitate to contact a tree pruner, as I am not confident that they would give me an accurate, unbiased answer since it would be in their interest to suggest that pruning was necessary.MGCC's Help Desk Response:Thank you for contacting the Master Gardener Help Desk.You are right to be concerned about your tree, especially during the drought. Sycamore trees affected by bacterial leaf scorch display brown leaves that often curl upward but do not fall from the tree. You may see black or brown lesions appear on the surface of the leaves, some of the branches may become twisted or deformed, or you may notice your tree shedding leaves during the early summer. While trees and neighbors can sometimes be a volatile combination, especially among neighbors who generally don't get along, it's important to know your rights and responsibilities before taking drastic measures. Blocked drains and lifted paving may also be a problem. The trunks of large trees are often hollow. Our native plane tree, Platanus racemosa, is a unique individual in the sycamore family.Found only in this region of the country, it is a historic component of the California landscape of streamsides, rocky canyons, moist valleys, and arid foothills. Problems with Sycamore Trees Many problems are associated with sycamore trees. Mexican sycamore tree (Howard Garrett) A better sycamore. I would guess it's height at 40 to 50 feet. Signs that a sycamore tree is suffering from this disease: Leaf blight or defoliation early in the summer. It has only moderate tolerance to salt and drought when well established. But trees also can be a source of tension among neighbors if they're not properly maintained, drop debris over the fence, or cause other problems. Bacterial Leaf Scorch: Bacterial leaf scorch (BLS) is a problem on several species of shade trees, including American sycamore and London planetree, oaks, maples, sweetgum, dogwood and American elm. Moira Sheridan . More information about this phenomenon can be found at this link from the Journal of Arboriculture. (http://bit.ly/1HormZb) While Master Gardeners can provide advice and appropriate references on the care of your Sycamore, we are not professional arborists, especially for significant concerns such as yours. UC provides some advice on dealing with contractors and consultants at this link (http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74125.html).ISA Certified Arborists in our area  can be found at this link http://www.isa-arbor.com/findanarborist/findanarborist.aspx. This is a common problem with the California sycamore tree, … The tiny hairs on the seed balls irritate skin and can cause respiratory distress if inhaled by sensitive people. Some certified arborists are independent consultants while others are associated with specific tree care companies. Please do not hesitate to contact us again if you need further assistance.Help Desk of the Master Gardeners of Contra Costa, Note: The  Master Gardeners of Contra Costa's Help Desk is available year-round to answer your gardening questions. It is native to California and Baja California, where it grows in canyons, floodplains, and along streams in several types of habitat. The Sycamore is a mature tree 35’ tall x 25’ wide with a 24” DBH trunk located in the front yard 12’ from the corner of the house. Seed pods in the form of fuzzy ball-like clusters hang from the branches in winter. Just in case you think sudden limb drop happens elsewhere... check out this recent ABC7 news clip here in the East Bay... not piling on, but here's another recent blog about oaks dropping branches during the summer... HOrT COCO-UC Master Gardener Program of Contra Costa, http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/GARDEN/PLANTS/sycamore.html, http://www.ipm.ucdavis.edu/PMG/PESTNOTES/pn74125.html, http://www.isa-arbor.com/findanarborist/findanarborist.aspx, http://abc7news.com/weather/sudden-drop-in-temperature-may-be-causing-sudden-limb-drop/293846/, http://ucanr.edu/blogs/blogcore/postdetail.cfm?postnum=18674, Fertilizing Fruit Trees and Information on Chill Hours. The biggest downside of American sycamore trees is the litter. Understanding the factors involved in tree damage to buildings, including soil type and depth of foundations, will help both tree and house owners determine what action to take and when to get … The disease first affects older leaves on a branch, before moving to newer leaves and eventually killing the entire branch. We can also be reached via telephone:  (925) 646-6586, email: ccmg@ucanr.edu, or on the web at http://ccmg.ucanr.edu/Ask_Us/. A. Client: On November 17, 2006, I inspected one California Sycamore (Platanus recemosa) tree in the front yard, located at the residence under construction. It also kills twigs and, if severe, entire branches. Weather-related disease problem on sycamore trees strikes this year . Newport Beach, Ca. Cottonwood trees are not the ideal type of landscaping tree for small or medium-sized backyards. If you suspect that your sycamore tree is suffering from a disease or is simply not thriving the way you’d like it to, give your friends at Evergreen Arborist Consultants a call. The extra rain and … Sycamore trees, also called plane trees, are among the most common shade trees planted in the United States and Europe. This week the city of Goleta announced that a California sycamore tree growing near a creek and on closed land slated to be a park is a national champion, a classification given by a Washington D.C.-based nonprofit conservation group to the biggest trees found across the country. Well-known to the native Tongva (Gabrielino) people of the region, the western sycamore (Plantanus racemosa) was one of the few trees to shade the lowlands of coastal Southern California. Cottonwood tree identification. The wood of infected trees is often discolored, yet it doesn’t become soft or rot away as happens with some other canker diseases. Except for a few holidays, we're open every week, Monday through Thursday for walk-ins from 9:00 am to Noon at 75 Santa Barbara Road, 2d Floor, Pleasant Hill, CA  94523. This is a short overview of the California sycamore including scientific name, leaf identification, and reproductive features. California sycamore (Platanus racemosa) is a majestic tree, up to 100 feet (32 m) in height and more than five feet (1.5 m) in diameter.A sycamore may have one or several trunks, which may be erect or wildly twisted and bent. When well established … the sycamore tree do so promptly to give your trees the possible. 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