A sycamore needs plenty of space, full sun, deep watering during droughts, and a yearly cleanup of the leaves, bark, and seed balls it sheds. Its most common problem is anthracnose, a leaf and twig disease that flares after cool, wet springs but rarely kills an established tree.

Why does a sycamore need so much room?

Because it ranks among the largest shade trees in eastern North America, often reaching 75 to 100 feet with a broad crown. Its roots spread wide in search of moisture, so it is best kept well away from foundations, pavement, and sewer lines.

How is a sycamore watered and mulched?

Deeply during dry spells and with a wide ring of mulch. Sycamores grow naturally along streams, so long droughts stress them, and mulch 2 to 3 inches deep, kept off the trunk, holds moisture and protects shallow roots from mowers.

How is sycamore anthracnose handled?

Mostly with patience and cleanup. Brown, dying leaves and twigs in late spring are typical after a cool, wet season, and the tree usually pushes out a second set of leaves by summer, while raking fallen leaves and pruning out dead twigs reduces the fungus carried into next year.

How can a sycamore's seed balls be reduced?

By treating the tree when it blooms. Mixed at about 3 ounces per gallon of water, Florel Fruit Eliminator is sprayed with good coverage at mid to full bloom, on a day between 65 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit, to reduce that season's seed balls on a healthy tree.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does sycamore bark peel off?

Because the outer bark cannot stretch as the trunk grows. It flakes away in patches, revealing the cream and white inner bark that gives the tree its mottled look.

When is a sycamore pruned?

In late winter, while dormant. Dead, crossing, and anthracnose damaged twigs are removed before spring growth begins.

What are the small bugs on sycamore leaves?

Often sycamore lace bugs. They feed on the undersides of leaves and leave the tops speckled pale, mainly a cosmetic problem on healthy trees.

Is a London plane tree the same as a sycamore?

Closely related. The London plane is a hybrid of the American sycamore and tends to show more resistance to anthracnose.