Tree problems · Other damage
Herbicide damage: signs and what to do
Herbicide damage is a kind of non-living (abiotic) damage, often seen on maples, ash and elm, redbud and dogwood. Look for: leaves that are cupped, twisted, puckered or curled, often on new growth.
General information, not a diagnosis. A certified arborist or your county extension office can confirm.
- Other damage
- Maples
- Ash and elm
- Redbud and dogwood
- Pines
- Oaks
- Almost any tree near treated lawns, fields or roadsides
Signs to look for
Tick what you see. More ticks make it more likely, but only an on-site look can confirm.
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Season
Injury often appears within days or weeks of spraying in spring and summer, when plants are growing. Drift is more likely in warm, windy weather. Root uptake damage can show up a season later.
How it spreads
Herbicide drifts on the wind as spray or vapor, or washes into the soil where tree roots reach. Roots often spread far beyond the edge of the crown, so a lawn treatment near a tree can reach its roots.
Where it is found
Herbicide damage can happen anywhere herbicides are used, including farm country, roadsides, lawns, and along fences and driveways.
Official sources
What to do
- 1
Take dated photos of the leaves, the whole tree and nearby plants. Photos help later.
- 2
Find out what was sprayed nearby and when, if you can. Ask neighbors, the lawn company and anyone who treated the area.
- 3
Do not prune a lot or fertilize heavily right away. Many trees recover on their own if given time.
- 4
Water the tree during dry spells and keep the root zone mulched.
- 5
Contact your county extension office or state department of agriculture if you think drift came from a neighbor, a farm or a roadside crew. Ask what steps you can take.
- 6
Wait a full season before deciding that a tree is lost. Ask an arborist to check it.
Safety first: do not climb, do not cut near power lines and do not use a chainsaw on storm-loaded wood. Call the utility for downed lines and 911 if anyone is in danger.
Prevention
Do not spray weed killer under or near trees unless the label says it is safe for them. Read labels, and keep in mind that roots reach far past the crown. Avoid spraying in wind or heat. Ask lawn crews to tell you what they use. Set clear boundaries when talking to neighbors and contractors.
When to call a pro
Call a certified arborist if a tree has widespread leaf damage, dieback or a twisted crown, or if you are not sure whether the cause is herbicide or something else. If drift came from a neighbor, a farm or a company, your state department of agriculture can tell you how to report it.
Not sure who to call? Read how to hire a tree service or check is my tree dangerous?
Trees it affects
Usually seen on: Maples, Ash and elm, Redbud and dogwood, Pines, Oaks, Almost any tree near treated lawns, fields or roadsides.
- Red Maple
- Silver Maple
- Sugar Maple
- Green Ash
- White Ash
- American Elm
- Tulip Poplar
- Black Locust
- Honeylocust
- Eastern Redbud
- Flowering Dogwood
- Eastern White Pine
- White Oak
- Northern Red Oak
- River Birch
- American Linden
- Black walnut
- Sweetgum
See all species in our tree library, or pick a tougher tree with the tree picker.
For tree companies
How to explain herbicide damage to a customer
Do not blame a neighbor without proof. Describe the pattern you see, take photos, and tell the owner that diagnosis can take a season. Suggest calling the state agriculture department or extension office if drift is likely. Do not promise a tree will survive or die. Put your advice in writing.
Send this page to the customer after your visit so they can read the signs in plain words. See also selling plant health care and the job photo checklist.
Questions
What does herbicide damage look like?
Growth-regulator herbicides can cause cupped, twisted or curled leaves and bent shoots. Other types may cause yellowing or brown edges. Several things can look alike, so ask for a diagnosis.
Will my tree recover?
Many trees with light damage recover, often outgrowing the symptoms over a season or more. Heavy or repeated exposure can cause lasting damage or death.
Can a lawn weed killer hurt my tree?
Yes, if it reaches the roots or drifts onto leaves. Tree roots often spread past the edge of the crown. Read the label before using any product near trees.
How do I find out what caused it?
Photos, dates and a list of what was sprayed nearby help. Your county extension office or state department of agriculture can advise, and may take samples in some cases.
Should I prune the damaged branches?
Not right away. Give the tree time, and ask an arborist before you do heavy pruning.
Who do I contact if a neighbor's spray hurt my tree?
Start with your state department of agriculture or county extension office. Keep your photos and notes. This is a short explanation, not legal advice.
Can Lirevon diagnose herbicide damage on my tree?
No. Lirevon is a remote marketing team for tree service companies and does not do tree work. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. A certified arborist or your county extension office can confirm what is wrong with your tree.
How do I find a good local pro for this?
Search Google Maps for certified arborists or tree services near you, read their reviews and ask for proof of insurance. Get two or three written quotes. Our guide on how to hire a tree service lists the questions to ask.
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