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Forest defoliators? #930940

Asked May 07, 2026, 2:14 PM EDT

We live in southern Ohio, Vinton County, in the Wayne National Forest area. We have around 30 acres, much of it tree covered. We are noticing that the new foilage at the tops of the trees is turning brown and curling. It is happening to various species of various ages. Do you have any insights?

Vinton County Ohio

Expert Response

Hi Darla,

I am the Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Educator in Vinton County. If you have noticed this damage in just the past few weeks, it is likely frost damage. The cold snap that we had last weekend caused widespread damage to young, tender leaves on trees around the area. Trees are pretty resilient and may keep the damaged leaves through the season. If the damage is too severe, the trees may drop and re-grow new leaves. As long as the damage has not killed every leaf on the trees, they should recover well! 

Here is a recent article from our Extension Forester if you would like to learn more: Why Are My Trees Wilting? | BYGL

Please let me know if you have any further questions!

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 07, 2026, 4:04 PM EDT

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