A redbay or backyard avocado that browns out almost overnight, holding its dead leaves instead of dropping them, may be showing laurel wilt.
Laurel wilt is a fungal disease carried by the tiny redbay ambrosia beetle, and it has moved through Florida's native redbay, swamp bay, and avocado trees. Infected trees wilt quickly, and cutting into the sapwood often reveals dark streaking. Many homeowners first notice it when one side of the tree wilts while the rest still looks green.
There is no cure once a tree is infected. Moving the wood as firewood can carry beetles to new trees, so dead trees should be removed and the wood chipped or handled on site. Nearby trees in the same family should be watched closely in the months that follow.
When a laurel family tree on a Brevard property declines suddenly, our ISA Certified Arborist can confirm the cause and plan a safe removal. Acting quickly also helps protect neighboring trees.
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An authentic photo of a redbay or avocado tree with browned, clinging leaves, or sapwood streaking on a cut section. Real local photos preferred over stock.
Canva text suggestion: "Browned Out Overnight? Think Laurel Wilt" or "Protect Brevard's Redbay and Avocado Trees"