Fig Tree Rust Fungus

Fig trees, scientifically known as Ficus carica, display large green leaves with tiny flowers collected inside the green fruit (synconium), and have male and female flower parts enclosed in stem tissue, according to the Texas A&M Agriculture Extension. Fig trees are vulnerable to several diseases, including rust fungus.

Symptoms

The fungus attacks the leaves with yellow spots that spread into a brownish color and eventually overcome the leaves. It is most common during the rainy seasons.

Damage

According to The Florida Time Union, if the fungus is not controlled, it continues attacking the leaves causing them to fall off, leaving the tree with a bare and frayed appearance.

Control

To control the fungus, apply one or two treatments of a neutral copper-based spray in May or early June. Follow with a second spray in three to four weeks. Pick up all diseased leaves from ground to prevent fungus from spreading to healthy leaves.

Prevention

There is no preventive method against rust fungus. The fungus typically attacks late in the season, but does not kill the tree, nor does it cause fruit loss.

Caution

If the tree is not treated and fungus controlled, sometimes the leaves drop off early in the season, and the new growth that appears can be vulnerable to cold injury.

References

• Texas A&M Agriculture Extension: Home Fruit Production-Figs
• The Florida Times Union: Fig Rust Fungus hits leaves early this year

Resources

• NSW Government: ture Fig growing in NSW
• Garden Guides: Fig Tree Diseases