Beech is a common species throughout the UK and is loved for its vast canopy and smooth steel-grey bark. But now there is a threat to the health of the beech tree in the form of an emerging disease: Petrakia liobae. Although unlikely to cause death in mature trees, as the disease is relatively slow spreading, Petrakia Liobae can reduce the health of the tree and cause unsightly visual blemishes on the leaves (it’s common name is leaf spot).
Whilst there is no treatment for patrakia liobae, if you think you’ve spotted it, you can report it through the government online portal TreeAlert.
Diseases affecting trees are being introduced on a regular basis and can often be treated to protect the longevity of the tree. If you feel any of your trees are looking ‘under the weather’, contact Wilding Arb for expert advice.
