Peterborough residents may be noticing some maple trees looking more like it’s fall than the middle of summer.
City arborists are reporting premature leaf drop and other signs of decline among Norway maple trees across the community, with similar conditions being reported elsewhere in southern Ontario.
City staff believe environmental stress is largely responsible, including lingering effects from last year’s drought combined with periods of extreme heat this summer.
An increase in early leaf drop and declining conditions among Norway maples was also observed during the July heat wave.
Many of the affected trees are showing signs of tar spot, a common fungal disease that produces dark spots on maple leaves. While the disease can affect a tree’s appearance and contribute to leaves falling early, the City says it typically does not cause serious or permanent damage to otherwise healthy trees.
Officials are also reassuring residents that a tree losing its leaves early is not necessarily dead or dying.
The effects of drought can continue beyond the year when dry conditions occurred, and arborists are hopeful stressed trees will recover and produce healthier foliage next year.
Residents with maple trees affected by tar spot can help reduce the chance of another infection by raking and removing fallen leaves.
Peterborough collects leaf and yard waste weekly on regular collection days until the end of November. Leaves can be placed at the curb in brown paper yard waste bags or approved reusable containers.
