A Gardeners Forum Forums Gardening Reference Gardening in 2005 funky tree mold

A maple tree in my front yard gets blotchy gray and white spots on its leaves every summer. When the leaves fall in autumn they turn brown and have tiny gray spots all over. I thought this was mildew, but no one I know can tell. The problem is I'm afraid it transferred onto my garden plants. I had several healthy patches of catnip that began to show gray spots, and my basil and lemon balm both had brown edges on the leaves, which shriveled by summer's end.
Anyone know what it is and how to treat it (preferably organically)?

i would send some of the leaves and other plants to your local cooperative extension office for identification of the problem. you should call them first, and if you don't know how to get ahold of them, call your nearest state university/college and they can help you. most counties have coop offices and they are set up to identify the pests indemic to their area!

oh, and welcome to the garden helper!!