Beech leaf disease (BLD) was first discovered in North America in 2012 in Ohio. It has since been detected in Pennsylvania, New York, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. BLD affects both American and European beech trees, and causes leaf deformation, dieback, and potential mortality of infested hosts. All ages and size of beech are affected, although the rate of decline can vary based on tree size. In larger trees, disease progression is slower, beginning in the lower branches of the tree and moving upward. In smaller trees, disease progression can be rapid which leads to high mortality of saplings and understory beech.

The causal agent of BLD is an introduced nematode from Japan, Litylenchus crenatae mccannii.

signs and symptoms

Symptoms of BLD are observed on leaves, buds and branches.

Leaf and bud symptoms do not progress throughout the growing season.

In early stages:

• Very little premature leaf drop occurs during early stages.
• Dark striping pattern appears on the leaves, parallel to the leaf veins.
• The darkened area is slightly raised and is thicker than the rest of the leaf tissue. This is most apparent when viewing from below.
• Striping is present upon leaf-out in the spring and most leaves will remain on the tree until autumn.
• Aborted buds which appear as crispy empty buds on an infested branch.

As the disease progresses:

• Eventually, lighter, chlorotic striping may also occur.
• Leaves near branch tips will become curled or shriveled, discolored, and deformed.
• Premature leaf drop which can lead to dieback.
• Reduced bud and leaf production will occur.
• Dieback starts on lower branches and progresses upwards.