What is Anthracnose?

Anthracnose is caused by several species of fungi that spread via airborne spores and rain splash. These pathogens primarily attack leaves, stems, and twigs—disrupting normal growth and leaving trees vulnerable to further stress.

The name anthracnose comes from Greek, meaning “coal disease,” a reference to the dark, blistered lesions the disease creates on infected foliage and twigs.

Anthracnose is a common term for a group of fungal diseases affecting trees and plants. In the warm climate of North Texas, understanding anthracnose and its impact on local trees is crucial for gardeners and homeowners alike.

Anthracnose Red Flags

• Irregular leaf spots
• Twig blight
• Dieback in spring
• Sunken lesions on leaves
• Curling and wilting leaves
• Cankers on stems and branches

How a Texas Tree Surgeons ISA Certified Arborist Diagnosis Anthracnose

Our ISA Certified Arborists carefully inspect leaves, stems, and branch tips for characteristic symptoms and assess surrounding environmental conditions that favor fungal growth. If needed, we may recommend lab testing to confirm a diagnosis or rule out other leaf diseases.

How Texas Tree Surgeons Treats / Manages Anthracnose

Our management approach includes:

• Pruning infected limbs and twigs to reduce the spread
  
• Fungicide applications during high-risk periods (especially early spring)
  
• Improving airflow and sunlight penetration through selective thinning
  
• Enhancing overall tree health with mulching, watering guidance, and soil amendments
  
• Seasonal sanitation, such as raking and disposing of fallen leaves to eliminate overwintering spores

In high-value or frequently infected trees, we may recommend preventative systemic fungicide treatments to limit reinfection year after year.

What can Homeowners do to help their trees with Anthracnose?

The fungi thrive in damp conditions, spreading through water splashes, wind, or contaminated soil and tools. Proper sanitation can help halt its transmission.

You can play a key role in protecting your trees from anthracnose:

• Rake and dispose of fallen leaves in autumn to prevent reinfection
  
• Avoid overhead irrigation or watering foliage in the evening
  
• Ensure good air circulation by spacing plantings and pruning when needed
  
• Call a Certified Arborist if you notice early symptoms or repeated outbreaks

What Will Happen to my Tree with Anthracnose?

In most cases, anthracnose is not fatal, but repeated infections can stress trees over time, leading to:

• Reduced growth
  
• Thinning canopies
  
• Increased susceptibility to secondary pests and diseases
  
• Premature leaf loss year after year

In young or already stressed trees, untreated anthracnose can accelerate overall decline. That’s why early detection and ongoing care are essential.

Understanding anthracnose and its impacts on trees in North Texas helps in maintaining healthy landscapes. By recognizing symptoms early, applying effective treatments, and taking preventive measures, you can protect your trees from this common fungal foe. If you need professional assistance, our team at Texas Tree Surgeons is ready to help care for your trees.