Cherry tree problems - Ask Extension
Hi, I have a "dwarf" cherry tree (about 35ft tall at this point) that is probably 10 years old, purchased at a local nursery. It gets good west-faci...
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Cherry tree problems #872089
Asked June 07, 2024, 2:16 PM EDT
Hi,
I have a "dwarf" cherry tree (about 35ft tall at this point) that is probably 10 years old, purchased at a local nursery. It gets good west-facing sun. Every spring, the tree leaves appear to whither and die; even the ones left on the tree have holes and brown spots. This takes a great toll on fruit production. I have noticed that one branch of the tree, which extends under an overhang from the house, tends to be less affected, suggesting there is a relationship with moisture.
How can I get a definitive diagnosis, and, more importantly, what can I do to prevent this from happening in the future?
Thank you!
Multnomah County Oregon
Expert Response
Thank you for your question, Chris. There are 48 known diseases or disorders of the cherry species (https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-and-disease-descriptions?title=cherry) at least 18 of which have leaf abnormality. We can't diagnose which one(s) your tree has without clear, up close photos. Even then, it may take examination under a microscope to determine the cause. You can take leaf samples, as well as a photo of the entire tree, into either the Washington County Extension office, or the Clackamas County Extension office, where Master Gardeners can examine them. You'd need to go when MGs are there, so check their websites.
Alternatively, you can submit leaf samples to the OSU Plant Clinic (https://bpp.oregonstate.edu/how-submit-plant-materials), where staff have the equipment to diagnose definitively. Know that, since we live in a moist region, prevention, especially from airborne fungal and bacterial sources, is almost impossible. I hope this is helpful. Good luck!
Alternatively, you can submit leaf samples to the OSU Plant Clinic (https://bpp.oregonstate.edu/how-submit-plant-materials), where staff have the equipment to diagnose definitively. Know that, since we live in a moist region, prevention, especially from airborne fungal and bacterial sources, is almost impossible. I hope this is helpful. Good luck!
