Question From: ARIZONA
Q: my mountain ash tree is struggling, can i send you photos, can u offer suggestions
(Click Images To View Larger Versions)
A: Sorbus dumosa (Arizona mountain ash) native to Arizona and New Mexico. My research indicates its a "trash tree" as it requires regular maintenance to keep it looking good and prevent dead branches from falling on the ground Here's what the Missouri Botanical Gardens website has to say about issues with Mountain Ash. Bacterial fireblight can be a severe problem, causing scorched leaves at the branch ends. Scab can cause significant defoliation. Cankers, crown gall, powdery mildew and rust may also occur. Insect visitors include borers, aphids, sawfly and scale. Stressed trees are generally more susceptible to attack from canker and borers. I recommend you get an onsite inspection from a professional, a certified arborist to assess the tree's condition. Note that the native Arizona Mountain ash is not a long lived tree- about 25 years To find a certified arborist in your area go to tcia.org and enter your zip code. Best and Happy Yardening, Nancy
