any idea on what might be causing 2 sweetgums to dye from the top down. They stand side by side along a road but no pollution (that we know of)and small amount of traffic. I don't think accidental herbicide and no damage to trunk that can be seen. Maybe a fungus??? I have noticed several other sweetgums in the area that have the same symptoms. The leaves look healthy and green. There have been no change to soil or grade. We did suffer from drought about 2 years ago and this might have put it at risk for disease or infestation. any ideas on what to do with them?

Reply to post by Melissa , on July 17, 2002 at 10:12:49:

Sweetgums are susceptible to a canker disease that produces the symptoms you describe. In NC I've cut them back to a vigorous side branch--crown reduction, not topping!

Trees responded well--8 yrs later they've grown backinto a more rounded shape, no disease evident.

Reply to post by Guy, on July 17, 2002 at 10:12:49:

The site linked below has information on Sweetgum.
I think soil water insufficiency should be considered.
At Chico State University, the main problems with Sweetgum (Liquidambar) tend to come from planting in areas with compacted clayish soil, shallow and infrequent irrigation (causing surface roots), and damage from squirrels, which eat the bark.

Reply to post by Mark Goodwin, on July 21, 2002 at 16:45:10:

that was a geat article on sweetgums..thanks..do you think it okay to do crown reduction this time of year in east texas or better to wait until winter as is best for most trees?

Reply to post by Melissa, on July 21, 2002 at 21:09:52:

As long as proper pruning guidelines are followed for crown reduction, relating to size of retained laterals and volume of foliage removed, I don't see why the present time wouldn't work. I do not live and work in East Texas, so a more local opinion might be different. If you are mostly removing dead branches, then impact on the tree should be slight. There is a chance that new growth that is stimulated by cutting now will not harden off for winter as well the rest of the branches, but I don't think that should be a big problem. The tree might be subject to some sunburning if much top foliage is removed. I would urge a minimal pruning, starting with dead wood, then consider further cuts relative to future tree structure (form and strength). One pruning will not likely be all that is required. Avoid the temptation to "cleanout" the small inner growth on the tree.