What Is Wrong With My Umbrella Tree?

Are there any small, round reddish brown spots with white to grey centers on the upper surface of the leaves?

Are there any small translucent spots on leaves, spots later turn black?

Are there any wet spots on leaves that turn brown and rot away?

Are the leaves curled and distorted, sticky to the touch?

Do the leaves and stems have white, cottony clusters on them?

Are the leaves discolored, fine webbing may be present?

Are the leaves yellow and wilting?

These symptoms indicate Alternaria leaf spot. Warm, wet conditions favor this fungal disease. Spray infected plants with copper and/or sulfur to prevent further disease development. Plant only pathogen-free seed from a reputable nursery.

Bacterial leaf spot causes circular translucent spots scattered over the leaf surface between the veins. These spots turn brownish-black and may spread to form large patches of dead tissue. To prevent the spread of this disease, avoid working around wet plants. Remove and destroy affected parts. Spray Bordeaux mix on remaining plants.

Leaf blight is caused by bacteria that develop during wet springs and overwinter on the tree to re-appear the next year. Prune away and destroy affected foliage and branches. Help prevent blight from infecting your umbrella tree by protecting it from frosts or wet weather in the early spring.

Distorted and sticky leaves and stems are caused by aphids. These tiny insects cluster under leaves and on growing tips where they feed on plant sap. Leaves, stems, and buds get distorted and latter leaves and flowers drop from the plant. You can control them by washing them off the plant with water spray. Insecticidal soap should be used only with severe infestations.

White, cottony clusters on leaves and stems are caused by mealybugs. These tiny insects are covered with a fluffy white coating. They feed by sucking plants sap. They produce sticky substance honeydew which makes leaves sticky. You can control them by washing them off the plant with water spray. Insecticidal soap should be used with severe infestations.

Two-spotted spider mites cause discoloration of umbrella tree leaves. You can control spider mites by spraying plants thoroughly with water 2-3 times a day for several days. For severe infestations, spray plants with insecticidal soap or pyrethrin.

Soil-dwelling fungi cause root and stem rot of umbrella trees. Typically, stems are attacked at or near the soil level. Foliage turns yellow, wilts, and dies. Cut all affected plant parts with a clean, sharp knife or razor blade. Disinfect tools after use with household disinfectant. Keep the garden clear of old plant debris and keep mulch away from stem bases.

Reddish to brown lines on leaves is caused by thrips. Thrips are tiny, yellow to black flying insects. They hide under leaves and inside flowers. Severely infested plant parts should be pruned off and destroyed. Control thrips by introducing lady beetles or lacewings. Insecticidal soap helps in severe infestations.