Hello,

WILL YOU PLEASE ANSWER THE BELOW QUESTIONS - THANK YOU!
You mentioned "fertilize fruit spray". Are you referring to a fertilizer application, a pesticide application, or both? Could you give us the product names of anything that was applied?

Can you please provide an image of the full trees It will also help give us some context.

Did you test the soil before planting and have you been irrigating these plants?

**********************************************************************

Leaf abnormalities can occur due to various factors. Let’s troubleshoot the issue:

Seasonal Factors: First, check if the trees are still alive. Scratch the bark gently—if the tissue underneath is bright green, the tree is alive. If it’s grey or dried-out, there might be other issues.

Variety Differences: Different apple cultivars have varying growth habits. Some may leaf out later than others. Research your specific apple variety to understand its typical timing for breaking dormancy and leafing out.

Nutrient Imbalance: Ensure proper nutrients. Over-fertilization can lead to leaf abnormalities. Consider soil testing and adjust fertilization accordingly. Check out this link:

Get Started | MSU Soil Test

Pests and Diseases:

Aphids: These tiny insects can cause leaf distortion. Check for aphids on the leaves.

Fungal or Bacterial Diseases: Diseases like crown or collar rot can lead to leaf drop or delayed leafing out. Look for signs of disease, such as discolored or spotted leaves.

Transplant Shock: If the trees were recently planted, they might be experiencing transplant shock. Ensure proper watering and care during this critical period1.

Remember to observe your trees closely and address any specific issues you notice.

If possible, consult with a the MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab. I recommend you send all your images by e-mail to the MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab for a confirm and precise identification. The experts there can also provide you with the best treatment options. Their email is <personal data hidden> - Please include your name – The lab will let you know if they need a sample sent. FYI – The lab may also ask for additional images too.

Their website is at this link:

Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

Their Contact Information is at this link:

Contact Us - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

If the lab wants you to submit a sample, this link will explain the details on submitting a sample to MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab:

Submit Samples - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

I hope this helps!

Here are some additional references (that may be helpful) at the below links:

Growing apples in the home garden | UMN Extension

Growing Apple and Pear Trees in a Home Garden | University of Maryland Extension (umd.edu)

How to Plant a Fruit Tree | Raise, Grow, Harvest, Eat, Repeat | Illinois Extension | UIUC

Rootstocks and Dwarf Fruit Trees - Cooperative Extension: Tree Fruits - University of Maine Cooperative Extension (umaine.edu)

How soon will a newly planted fruit tree begin to bear fruit? | Yard and Garden (iastate.edu)

Diagnosing Apple Tree Leaf Discoloration | NDSU Agriculture

On 06/04/2024 8:58 PM EDT Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:

 

 

Dear Jean,

Thank you for using Ask Extension. A request for support has been created and a representative will follow-up with you as soon as possible. Questions are usually answered within two business days. You can view this question's progress online.

YOUR QUESTION #0141539:

Apple and peach tree problem

 

I just planted 3 semi dwarf apple tteees and 2 dwarf peach trees 4 out of the 5 have leaf “abnormalities “ and wondering the cause. Will enclose pictures. I sprayed them all with fertilize fruit spray on May 8. Thank you for your help. Jean

 

Ask Extension offers one-to-one expert answers from Cooperative Extension/University staff and volunteers within participating Land-Grant institutions across the United States.

If you wish to provide additional comments or information regarding the issue, please login to your account for a complete archive of your prior questions and answers.

---

This message for informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for personalized professional advice. For specific local information, contact your local county Cooperative Extension office or other qualified professionals. eXtension Foundation does not recommend or endorse any specific tests, professional services, products, procedures, opinions, or other information that may be mentioned. Reliance on any information provided by eXtension Foundation, employees, suppliers, member universities, or other third parties through eXtension is solely at the user's own risk. All eXtension content and communication is subject to the Terms of Use which may be revised at any time.

Hello Again,

Thank you for the additional images and the expanded descriptions of the problems with your dwarf peach and apple trees.

Here is some additional information. Some of this may be a repeat of what I said earlier:

Peach Trees:

Orange Leaves and Dropping: Orange leaves can indicate stress or nutrient deficiencies. Ensure the soil pH is suitable for peach trees (around 6.0 to 6.5). Consider a soil test to check nutrient levels. 

Overwatering: Excessive rain combined with watering may lead to root suffocation. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering.

Fertilome Fruit Spray: While it’s good for protecting against pests, follow the recommended application instructions to avoid overuse.

Apple Trees:

Spotted and Curling Leaves: This could be due to fungal diseases. Two common culprits are:

Powdery Mildew: White powder on leaves. Spray it with water to remove it, and consider copper fungicide if it persists.

Apple Scab: Yellow or dark speckles on leaves. Fungicide application is necessary.

Good Orchard Hygiene: Remove fallen leaves and fruit to prevent disease spread.

Aphids: Check the undersides of leaves for tiny white or green insects. Prune-affected leaves or rely on natural predators like ladybugs.

Remember, regular maintenance and proper care are essential for healthy fruit trees. 

I recommend you send all your images by e-mail to the MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab for confirmed and precise identification. The experts there can also provide you with the best treatment options. Their email is <personal data hidden>. Please include your name. The lab will let you know if they need a sample sent. FYI, the lab may also ask for additional images.

Their website is at this link:

Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

Their Contact Information is at this link:

Contact Us - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

This link will explain the details of submitting a sample to MSU Plant & Pest Diagnostics Lab:

Submit Samples - Plant & Pest Diagnostics (msu.edu)

I hope this helps!