Pear Tree - Leaves turning black and falling off

Question: The leaves on my pear tree are turning black and falling off. Do you know what is wrong with it? Is there anything that can be done to help it?

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 03, 2023, 10:28 AM EDT
response: This could be caused by a number of different things. When was the tree planted? How are you watering it and how often?

responder: The Question Asker Replied July 03, 2023, 10:52 AM EDT
response: Hello!I planted it a year ago (this is it's 2nd summer here). I haven't been watering it at all this summer because I figured it was established. The other pear tree that is next to it (purchased and planted at same time, watered same amount over there course of having it) is healthy so far.Thanks!Lauren On Mon, Jul 3, 2023, 10:28 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 05, 2023, 1:19 PM EDT
response: Okay, thanks for answering those questions. Have you seen any insects on the leaves? Especially look on the undersides of the leaves. There are a number of insects that might be feeding on the pear leaves, but one strong possibility is the Pear Psylla. You can read more about it here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/ipm/diseases/pear_psylla

responder: The Question Asker Replied July 05, 2023, 10:46 PM EDT
response: Hello!No, I haven't seen any insects on the leaves at all. I made sure to look under the leaves too. Could there be bugs so small they can't be seen that are doing this? Best,LaurenOn Wed, Jul 5, 2023, 1:19 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 12, 2023, 2:21 PM EDT
response: Pear psylla can be difficult to see without a magnifier of some kind. Can you send a photo of the base of the tree? If this isn't pear psylla, it might be something affecting the trunk, and/or the roots. A photo showing the base of the trunk, including where it meets the soil, might help.

responder: The Question Asker Replied July 17, 2023, 12:41 PM EDT
response: Hello - here's a pic of the trunk. Thanks!!On Wed, Jul 12, 2023, 2:21 PM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

responder: An Ask Extension Expert Replied July 24, 2023, 10:28 AM EDT
response: Is this a grafted tree? We should be able to see the graft union, but I can't make one out in the photo. Either way, I would recommend removing all of the vegetation around the base of the tree and mulching the area with 2-3 inches of mulch. Leave a ring about 6 inches around the base of the trunk that is mulch and vegetation free. I still think Pear Psylla is something to look out for. However, there is also a possibility this is being caused by cultural issues. There could be an issue with the roots that is creating stress in the upper canopy. Unfortunately, these types of issues can be very difficult to solve on this platform. I would recommend that you consider working with our Plant and Pest Diagnostic Laboratory. You can find their contact info here: https://www.canr.msu.edu/pestid/contact Otherwise, I would follow the steps I outlined above, and wait and see if the problems continue or if the tree recovers next year.