Red Maple Leaf Tip Burn: Nutrient Deficiency or Herbicide?

Black Leaf Tips and “Coke-Stain” Bleeding on Young Red Maple

Your 2-month-old 30-gallon red maple shows black leaf tips that bleed a cola-colored liquid when wet, plus leaf holes and vein discoloration. This suggests either nutrient deficiency or herbicide injury (e.g., “Weed & Feed” on nearby lawn). Insect feeding explains the holes.

Steps to Take

• If herbicide was used nearby, stop—it can kill trees.
• Fertilize with 10-10-10 at 1 lb per inch trunk diameter, scattered and watered in (before rain).
• Water only if 2 weeks without rain: 1 inch measured by pan under sprinkler.
• Mulch 3 inches with pine straw.
• Contact Texas Forest Service for a forester visit if unsure.

The “bleeding” is unusual; a field diagnosis is best.