Black Cherry Tree Diseases

Black cherry trees are susceptible to a few diseases that can kill the tree if not taken care of early on. These diseases can also spread to other trees. Fast action and a watchful eye are necessary to keep your trees healthy and bearing fruit.

Black Knot

Black knot is a fungus that appears on the small woody parts of the tree. Black knot will hit the newest growth first. Look for the branches to swell and turn a light brown. Treat with fungicides and pruning.

Silver Leaf

Silver leaf is another fungus. The first sign is when twigs and branches die off. Leaves turn silver and then develop brown spots. Chemicals do not work on this one. Infected branches and leaves need to be cut off and burned.

Powdery Mildew

Powdery mildew is a fungus that attacks the leaves and twigs. It appears as white patches. Be especially watchful after a period of high humidity or rain. Fungicides do work on powdery mildew.

Leaf Spot

Leaf spot affects the leaves but not the twigs and branches. It also appears after high humidity. Look for small dark spots on the leaves. Pick up and get rid of any leaves that fall. You can use a fungicide on leaf spot.

Canker

Canker is a bacterial infection. The leaves get spots and the woody parts will develop canker sores. It will also show up on the young fruit. Be on the lookout if you have a cold, wet snap after the tree is in bloom.

Resources

• Deciduous Tree Diseases