Small Branch Ends Dying on Cherry Trees - Ask Extension
Hello,
I have a question about several cherry trees where recently numerous small branch ends on long established limbs are dying. The branch ...
Knowledgebase
Small Branch Ends Dying on Cherry Trees #872254
Asked June 09, 2024, 10:03 AM EDT
Hello,
I have a question about several cherry trees where recently numerous small branch ends on long established limbs are dying. The branch end will drop down and any leaves on the end will shrivel to a dry dark brown (please see photo). Eventually the branch end and leaves fall to the ground. It's not unlike when the cicadas were in Maryland and laid eggs in the ends of branches which died off. Since there are no cicada active or other pest evidence I am wondering if you can provide and info or advice about what's happening. For what it's worth, these trees also seem to have shot-hole virus. Despite all this they bloomed magnificently this spring and have many green leaves. Thank you
Baltimore County Maryland
Expert Response
Unfortunately the dead branch tips with the leaves holding on is a sign of Brown Rot disease. In the past Brown Rot was primarily an issue in edible cherry plantings but is now showing up on ornamental cherries as well. The disease enters through the flowers as they collapse and brown and then moves into the twigs. Pruning out the browned tips that you can reach in dry weather can help a bit. (Throw them out in the trash. Try to reduce stress on the tree by keeping the tree watered when we don't get at least an inch of rain per week- you can put out a rain gauge or a tuna can in the yard to measure.
Here is our page on the issue:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/brown-rot-ornamental-cherry-trees/
If the tree is very important to you, consider contacting a certified arborist to assess and possibly treat. Most larger tree companies have them on staff or you can search for one at the credentialing agency at http://www.treesaregood.org
Christine
Here is our page on the issue:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/brown-rot-ornamental-cherry-trees/
If the tree is very important to you, consider contacting a certified arborist to assess and possibly treat. Most larger tree companies have them on staff or you can search for one at the credentialing agency at http://www.treesaregood.org
Christine
Dear Christine,
Thank you so much for the prompt and thorough response. It's a bit disheartening, but you've given me some direction that should help give these trees a fighting chance.
I am grateful to have access to this wonderful service and professionals like you here in Maryland.
Wishing you a wonderful summer.
Sincerely,
Wayne
You're welcome Wayne and thank you so much for your kind words. We are happy that we can help.
You enjoy your summer as well.
Christine
You enjoy your summer as well.
Christine
