ANTHRACNOSE UPDATE:
Consistent Water & Raking Loose Debris for Healthier Sycamore and London Plane Trees

This article discusses the latest insights from Salt Lake City’s Urban Forestry team regarding the ongoing anthracnose outbreak affecting London Plane and Sycamore trees. With proper care, your London Plane and Sycamore trees will be happier and healthier.

Throughout the summer, Urban Forestry Division Arborists have worked with experts from Utah State University, other municipal tree managers, and numerous private tree care arborists regarding the current anthracnose outbreak. These discussions with other arborists confirm the Urban Forestry Division’s observations that chemical treatment options have not significantly improved treated trees. Therefore, as trees often respond to foliar disorders by pushing out new leaves, the best approach to minimize the impacts of anthracnose is consistent watering. Additionally, residents can help prevent the spread of this infection by raking up and removing any debris, such as twigs or leaves, that fall from their trees.

The rise of anthracnose in Salt Lake Valley can be attributed to recent weather patterns characterized by cool, wet springs and extended hot summers. In anticipation of another challenging year for anthracnose during the 2025 season, the Urban Forestry Division plans to test various treatment options on groups of Sycamore and London Plane trees. This effort aims to evaluate the effectiveness of different treatments further and refine our management strategies. Residents who prefer to work with a private-sector ISA-certified arborist can obtain a permit to have park strip trees adjacent to their property treated. This permit is available under ‘Public Property Tree Work Permit’ on the Urban Forestry Division webpage.  Through this permitting process, Urban Forestry will also be able to assess the effectiveness of any treatments performed by private tree care companies.

Caring for our urban trees is a shared responsibility. By understanding the challenges posed by anthracnose and implementing best practices for tree care, we can work together to enhance the health of Salt Lake City’s green spaces. Residents are encouraged to take a proactive approach by ensuring their trees are well-watered. For any questions regarding the health of your city trees, please get in touch with Urban Forestry at (801) 972-7818 or urban.forestry@slc.gov.