Beech Leaf Disease

BLD is caused by an invasive nematode that infects ornamental and native beech tree species. It is often, but not always, fatal to the infected tree. We can identify signs and symptoms of BLD and recommend appropriate management for your tree.

What is Beech Leaf Disease?

(Litylenchus crenatae subspecies mccannii

Beech Leaf Disease (BLD) is caused by an invasive nematode that infects ornamental and native beech tree species. BLD was first discovered in Ohio in 2012 and has since spread throughout the Northeastern US. The first confirmed case in Vermont was reported in October 2023.

Signs and Symptoms

Damage may not be immediately clear, but becomes more extreme as the disease progresses. Symptoms of BLD include:

  • Distinct dark bands between the veins of leaves
  • Cupped, deformed, shriveled and may be smaller than usual leaves
  • Leaves become thick and leathery in texture, unlike the papery texture of healthy leaves
  • Premature leaf drop
  • Reduced leaf and bud production
  • Thinning canopy

BLD is often, but not always fatal to the infected tree. Young beech trees are more susceptible and more likely to succumb than older, established trees. Currently, the organism’s life cycle, how the disease spreads, and how the disease can be effectively managed is unknown. However some trial treatments have proved to be promising options in managing the disease on a landscape tree level.

I think I have a tree with Beech Leaf Disease, what do I do?

Report it! Use the Vermont Invasives Report It! page to report BLD. We can also help by providing diagnosis, proper reporting channels, and determining a management plan that best fits your tree. Detecting new infections early is key to slowing its spread to other trees.

We can help you by assessing the overall current health of your beech tree(s) and discussing your management options. Our staff of ISA Certified Arborists and ecologists have the knowledge and experience to help you make the best choice for your trees.

Resources

Halman, Josh. 2023. “First Confirmation of Beech Leaf Disease in Vermont | Department of Forests – Parks and Recreation.” Fpr.vermont.gov. State of Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Department of Forests – Parks and Recreation. October 16, 2023. https://fpr.vermont.gov/news/first-confirmation-beech-leaf-disease-vermont.

Lessing, Christa. 2023. “Beech Leaf Disease: Be on the Look-out | Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets.” Agriculture.vermont.gov. State of Vermont Agency of Agriculture Food and Markets. July 6, 2023. https://agriculture.vermont.gov/pharm-blog/beech-leaf-disease-be-look-out.

Vermont Invasives. n.d. “Beech Leaf Disease | Vermont Invasives.” Www.vtinvasives.org. Vermont Invasives. Accessed February 2, 2024. https://www.vtinvasives.org/invasive/beech-leaf-disease.