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Flowering Crab Wilting Leaves #870237

Asked May 27, 2024, 9:33 AM EDT

Tree flowered beautifully this spring. Guessing the tree is 20+ years old. Last week I noticed the leaves wilting as if it had been frozen, but certainly not the case. Some leaves are in tact but most wilting. Appreciate your diagnosis and possible treatment. Thanks

Ramsey County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hello Bill, happy to help.

Sorry this question got overlooked in the queue but better late than never.

I do see the characteristic hooked curving of new growth in your close-ups that tells me it may be fireblight, a fungal disease. By now, you probably have clusters of dead leaves hanging down from your tree if I'm correct. We have had the right weather conditions for the disease. It can be precipitated by damage to the tree, like hail, that opens wounds allowing the fungi to enter.

Because I can't definitively say what it is from a photo, I recommend sending a sample to the U of MN Extension plant disease clinic for a diagnosis and recommended treatment. Here is a link to their website where you'll learn about their services, prices, and how to submit a sample.

Good-luck!

eGardener Replied June 28, 2024, 10:30 AM EDT

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