Troubleshooting
Sterling Silver Linden problems — and how to fix them
Sterling Silver Linden (Tilia tomentosa 'Sterling') is generally forgiving once you match its basics, but a few issues come up again and again. Here is what each one looks like, why it happens, and the fix.
Bee mortality from nectar
Tilia tomentosa flowers produce nectar high in the sugar mannose, which can be narcotic or lethal to bumblebees. Plant away from managed hive areas or accept some bee mortality as a natural occurrence.
Gall mites (Eriophyes tiliae)
Tiny mites cause red or green nail-gall eruptions on upper leaf surfaces in spring. Disfiguring but rarely harmful to tree health; no chemical treatment is usually warranted.
Transplant stress and poor establishment
Like most large lindens, 'Sterling' can be slow to establish after transplanting. Water diligently for the first 2 growing seasons and mulch the root zone to conserve moisture.
Prevent sterling silver linden problems before they start
Most sterling silver linden issues are care-mismatch, not bad luck. Dial in the basics:
Sterling Silver Linden problems — FAQ
Why is my sterling silver linden bee mortality from nectar?
Tilia tomentosa flowers produce nectar high in the sugar mannose, which can be narcotic or lethal to bumblebees. Plant away from managed hive areas or accept some bee mortality as a natural occurrence.
Why is my sterling silver linden gall mites (eriophyes tiliae)?
Tiny mites cause red or green nail-gall eruptions on upper leaf surfaces in spring. Disfiguring but rarely harmful to tree health; no chemical treatment is usually warranted.
Why is my sterling silver linden transplant stress and poor establishment?
Like most large lindens, 'Sterling' can be slow to establish after transplanting. Water diligently for the first 2 growing seasons and mulch the root zone to conserve moisture.