Dutch Elm Disease
Dutch elm disease is a serious disease that affects elm trees. It can cause leaves to wilt, turn yellow or brown, and fall from the tree. Branches may also die, often starting in one part of the tree.

Oak Wilt
Oak wilt is a disease that can damage oak trees. Leaves may turn brown quickly and fall during the growing season. The disease can spread through roots between nearby oak trees.

Fire Blight
Fire blight can affect trees such as crabapple and pear. New leaves and branches may look burned or blackened. Branch tips may also bend over, creating a shape sometimes called a shepherd’s crook.

Apple Scab
Apple scab can affect apple and crabapple trees. Look for dark spots on leaves and fruit. In serious cases, infected leaves may turn yellow and drop early.

Needle Diseases
Some evergreen trees in Nebraska can develop needle diseases. Needles may turn yellow, brown, or red and then fall. These problems can be caused by different fungi, so proper identification is important.

What Can You Do?
Start by checking your trees several times each year. Look for unusual leaves, dead branches, spots, peeling bark, or other changes. Keep trees watered during dry periods, and avoid damaging the trunk or roots.

Do not assume every brown leaf means disease. Heat, drought, insects, and other problems can cause similar symptoms.

When you see something unusual, consider getting a professional opinion. A Certified Arborist can inspect your tree and help identify the problem. Early attention may give your tree a better chance of staying healthy.