pictures of cherry tree diseases

Pictures of Cherry Tree Diseases Identification. Prevention and Treatment

Cherry trees are prized for their beautiful blossoms and delicious fruit. However, they are susceptible to several potentially devastating diseases. Being able to identify and treat these diseases is crucial for maintaining the health and productivity of your cherry trees. This article provides pictures and descriptions of the most common cherry tree diseases, along with tips for prevention and treatment.

Black Knot

Black knot causes rough black swellings or knots on branches and twigs. These gall-like knots are covered in olive-green fungal growth in the spring. The knots continue enlarging over time and may ooze in wet weather. Black knot is caused by the fungus Apiosporina morbosa. It spreads through fungal spores carried by wind and rain. To treat black knot, prune out infected branches, cutting at least 4 inches below the knot. Burn or bury pruned branches to prevent further spread.

[Picture of black knot disease on a cherry tree branch]

Brown Rot

Brown rot causes blossoms, twigs, and fruit to turn brown or grayish-brown. A white fungal growth may develop on infected tissue. It is caused by Monilinia fungus and thrives in wet, humid conditions. To manage brown rot, remove and destroy infected fruit and prune out diseased twigs and branches. Improve airflow through pruning and thinning to keep trees dry. Fungicides may be needed for severe infections.

[Picture of cherry fruit with brown rot infection]

Cherry Leaf Spot

This fungal disease causes purple and brown spots on leaves. Spots enlarge and centers may fall out, leaving holes. It is caused by the fungus Blumeriella jaapii. Rake up and dispose of fallen leaves to remove sources of reinfection. Prune for good airflow. Copper spray after leaf drop may help prevent infection next season.

[Picture of cherry tree leaf with purple leaf spot lesions]

Powdery Mildew

A white or gray powdery fungal growth covers leaves, shoots, and fruit. Leaves may be distorted and drop early. Caused by Podosphaera clandestina fungus. Improve airflow through pruning. Avoid overcrowding trees. Early fungicide sprays may help control infections.

[Picture of cherry leaves covered in white powdery mildew]

Silver Leaf

Leaves develop a silver sheen and may have brown dead spots. Dieback and fungal fruiting structures on bark also occur. Caused by Chondrostereum purpureum fungus entering through wounds. Prune out affected branches well below visible symptoms. Avoid excess pruning to limit wounds.

[Picture of cherry tree leaves with silver discoloration from silver leaf disease]

Bacterial Canker

Sunken or cracked cankers ooze reddish sap. Caused by Pseudomonas syringae bacteria entering wounds. Prune out cankered areas, sterilizing tools between cuts. Avoid excess pruning.

[Picture of cherry tree canker oozing reddish sap]

Phytophthora Root Rot

Leaves wilt, turn yellow, and drop. Roots turn brown. Caused by Phytophthora fungus in wet soil. Improve drainage and avoid overwatering. Fungicide drenches may help. Remove severely infected trees.

[Picture of cherry tree infected with Phytophthora root rot]

Armillaria Root Rot

Dieback, yellowing leaves. Clusters of honey mushrooms on bark. Caused by Armillaria fungus in soil. Remove infected roots, improve drainage. Soil fungicide injections may help.

[Picture of Armillaria mushrooms at base of infected cherry tree]

Crown Gall

Rough, round galls on trunk and branches. Caused by Agrobacterium bacteria entering through wounds. Cut out galls or remove infected trees. Avoid wounding and sterilize tools.

[Picture of cherry tree crown gall]

Peach Tree Borer

Larvae bore into trunk, causing sap flow and damage. Adults are clearwing moths. Monitor for injury sites. Use insecticides or introduce predators. Keep trees vigorous. Insert wire into larvae holes.

[Picture of peach tree borer larvae in cherry tree trunk]

Prevention Is Key

• Buy disease-resistant varieties when possible
• Prune properly and avoid excess pruning
• Disinfect pruning tools between trees
• Rake up and dispose fallen leaves
• Improve airflow through pruning and spacing
• Avoid overcrowding trees
• Promote dryness through proper watering
• Fix drainage issues
• Clean up diseased debris and fruit
• Apply preventive fungicides and bactericides

Prompt identification and treatment of diseases is crucial for saving cherished cherry trees. Consult an arborist or tree care professional if you notice troubling symptoms. With vigilant monitoring and care, your cherry trees can thrive for seasons to come.