Sooty Bark Disease

You'll notice sparse twig dieback and wilting canopy on stressed maples (especially Acer pensylvanicum), followed by tree decline or mortality. The fungus Cryptostroma corticale causes dark bark blisters with black spore masses. It spreads through drought-stressed trees and hot summers. Scout for early signs. Remove and burn infected trees immediately, avoiding summer pruning of healthy trees. Wear PPE when handling infected material.

Arborists and wood workers should wear PPE to avoid inhaling spores, keep spores out of their eyes and respiratory system when removing or working with infected trees. Scout landscapes, parks, and street trees for incidences of this disease.