Should I spray my tree with fungicide?

Fungicides are rarely necessary for Lindens. Proper cleanup and pruning are usually enough to manage the problem.

Will the spots go away?

The existing spots will not disappear, but the tree will grow healthy new leaves next season if you manage the moisture.

Why does my Linden tree have dark spots on its leaves?

Check these first

Examine the spots to see if they have a yellow halo.
Check if the spots are mostly on the lower, inner branches.
Look for fallen leaves on the ground.

Likely causes

Fungal leaf spot
Most likely
How to tell: Small brown or black spots appear on the leaves, sometimes with a yellow halo around them.
What to do: Rake up and dispose of all fallen leaves under the tree to remove fungal spores. Prune away heavily infected branches to improve airflow through the canopy.
Poor air circulation
Possible
How to tell: The inner leaves stay damp for too long after rain, leading to fungal growth.
What to do: Thin out crowded branches to allow sunlight and wind to reach the center of the tree. This helps the foliage dry out quickly after rain.

When to worry

Leaf spot is mostly cosmetic and rarely fatal. You should only worry if the tree loses a significant portion of its leaves before autumn.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the tree rather than overhead to keep the leaves dry. Keep the area under the tree clean of debris throughout the growing season.

Not sure which one it is? Photograph your linden tree.

This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

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Questions people ask

Should I spray my tree with fungicide?: Fungicides are rarely necessary for Lindens. Proper cleanup and pruning are usually enough to manage the problem.
Will the spots go away?: The existing spots will not disappear, but the tree will grow healthy new leaves next season if you manage the moisture.