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Honeylocust 'Shademaster' Branch Dieback: Canker or Borer Risk

20-year-old 'Shademaster' honeylocust (Gleditsia triacanthos) shows progressive branch tip dieback, one whole dead limb, and bark peeling. Nursery employee called it fast-growing but short-lived.

Expert Input

Honeylocusts grow up to 2 ft/year.
Thinning canopy suggests disease (leaf spots, Thyronectria canker) or borers.
In hot/humid South/Southeast with heavy soils, they decline faster.
Arborist or county extension "house call" needed for diagnosis.
Internal decay = progressive thinning; removal may become necessary for safety.

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