[Arid_gardener] leaf damage - almond tree

[Olin Miller]

Your leaf problem may be due to a nutrient deficiency instead of ants. 
There is a University of California article that addresses Almond tree 
care at
http://cekern.ucdavis.edu/Custom_Program485/Maximize_Almond_Profits_in_Record_Crop_Years.htm

Ants in trees are believed not to harm the tree but may take advantage 
of a condition of the tree that is suitable for nesting.  The sticky 
yellow tapes placed around tree trunks can restrict travel and reduce 
the populations.

"The opinions or statements expressed herein are my own and should not 
be taken as a position, opinion, or endorsement of the Maricopa Master 
Gardener Association or of the University of Arizona."

Olin Miller
Master Gardener Volunteer, Maricopa County AZ
======================================================

From: "Patti Ahlman" <ppuhalla at cox.net>
Sent: Friday, May 05, 2006 6:58 PM
> We have a young almond tree (planted this spring) which has leafed out 
> nicely.  However, we constantly battle ants on the tree itself, and 
> now many of the leaves have either holes in them or brown spots on 
> them that eventually become holes.  Some of the damage is on the edges 
> of the leaves, but there is are a lot of spots in the middle of the 
> leaf.  Any advice would be hugely appreciated.