Plum Tree Leaf Disease
Plum trees, otherwise known as Prunus salicina, produce sweet plums, and can reach a height of 35 feet. This tree does best when planted in a location that with direct sunlight and well-draining soil. While plum trees are relatively hardy, they can be affected by a variety of leaf diseases. Does this Spark an idea?
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Bacterial Spot
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Bacterial spot disease is characterized by small, black spots or flecks that appear on the leaves of the plum tree. These spots initially look like water spots, then the center of the spot will fall out, leaving a hole. These spots usually occur along the outer edge of the leaf, or in the center vein. Bacterial spot disease causes the leaves to fall of the of the tree. This disease only affects trees that are planted in climates which receive more than 20 inches of rain per year.
Cherry Leaf Spot
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Cherry leaf spot is characterized by small, yellow spots on the leaves of the plum trees. As the disease progresses, the leaves will eventually turn brown, and then fall off permanently. This disease, which is caused by a fungus called Coccomyces hiemalis, is especially dangerous as is can survive winter months, and last from season to season.
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Silver Leaf
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Silver leaf disease is characterized by the development of silver leaves which eventually turn brown, and fungus growth on infected branches. As this disease progresses, the fruit of the plum tree obtains a brown or purple stain.
Rust
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Rust is actually a type of fungal disease known as Pucciniastrum epilobi. This disease appears as raised, rust colored spots on the bottom of leaves.
Red Spider Mite
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Red spider mite is a type of pest which spins fine webs on the bottom of leaves, causing speckling and bronzing of the leaves of plum trees. These pests typically attach plants in a protected location such as a greenhouse, and thrive in dry, warm conditions.
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References
- Photo Credit plum image by dinostock from Fotolia.com
