Help! I have a mesquite tree, about 12 inches tall and 4 1/2 years old. The leaves are turning white and are falling from the tree. I don't know whether it is a mold or not. Is there something I should treat it with?

Thanks for your help. I started this on my own and have loved caring and pruning the tree, but I know nothing about treating for diseases.

Thanks for your help.

Mae Colburn.

It is hard for me to analyse what disease (if it is a disease) that your tree has without being able to see it myself and not knowing of your location or climate.

The Mesquite (Prosopis) requires a warm, dry climate and can only tolerate very light frosts, being a tree originating from Africa, west Asia and the Americas - this could be your problem, it simply needs to be positioned properly - in a position of full sun. You should also ensure that the tree is not waterlogged (which could also be the source of the problem) - the soil should be light and well-drained with moisture at depth. The Mesquite species tolerate dry conditions very well and like alkaline soil.

Regards,

Dan