Little is known about the cause and spread of beech leaf disease. Some experts have noticed an association between a nematode (Litylenchus crenatae mccannii) and beech leaf disease (BLD), but it is unknown if this nematode causes the disease. There are several symptoms to be on the look out for. Leaves become curled, have leather texture, and striping. There is an overall reduction is leaf and bud production and not every branch is affected equally. Sapling and weakened trees tend to be affected sooner than mature healthy trees. BLD has been detected in multiple southeastern Michigan counties, including Oakland County.
Check out our page on beech bark disease to compare the symptoms and signs!
Have you seen this species? Report it to us or on the MISIN website or smartphone app! Please include photo for ID verification.
Environmental Effects
BLD and beech bark disease can kill large, forested stands. Michigan has over 37 million beech trees. If BLD becomes widespread there will be a reduction in the quality of wildlife habitat. Beeches provide nesting sites for birds and are an important food resource for many woodland species.
Treatments
On-going research is being conducted but there are no current effective treatments. Prevention and early detection are important for combating BLD. Beech products should not be removed from areas of known infestations. Beech trees should be surveyed throughout April to October so BLD can be detected early. If your landscaping has only beech trees it is recommended to plant other native species to increase diversity. This way the effects are less dramatic if the beech trees are affected in the future.
Resources
State of Michigan’s Species Account
Canada’s Invasive Species Centre has a great resource summarizing beech leaf disease which is included below!