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apple tree with dying branches #874539

Asked June 24, 2024, 9:26 PM EDT

Can you tell from these photos what I havve going on. Just a branch here and there are affected. Thank you!

Hennepin County Minnesota

Expert Response

Hello, 

Thanks for reaching out! I have a few questions based on the photos you sent: 

1. Have you noticed any impact to the fruit? (is it shriveled? is it any different color? are there any rotten spots?)

2. Do you notice any symptoms on the bark? Perhaps oozing drops found along the infected branches, or is the bark cracked or peeling? 

3. It is difficult to tell exactly from the photos -- do you notice any spots on the green leaves? 

An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 27, 2024, 2:31 AM EDT
Thank you for getting back to me. I'm attaching a couple more photos that I'm hoping will clear things up. No oozing of the bark - it seems to start at the end of the branch and goes in.
Thanks,
Brian

On Thu, Jun 27, 2024 at 1:31 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied June 28, 2024, 2:20 PM EDT
Thanks for the pictures.  Your tree most likely has fire blight.  It can be difficult to treat.  It is usually not recommended to prune at this stage because it can spread the disease.  However you can mark the branches for pruning in the dormant season/winter.  It is also important to remove all leaves and fruit and fallen branches in the fall.  Compare what you are seeing with the following websites.

1. https://apps.extension.umn.edu/garden/diagnose/plant/fruit/apple/leavesbrown.html

2. https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/fire-blight

3. https://extension.illinois.edu/blogs/good-growing/2023-03-24-managing-fire-blight-apples-and-pears-home
MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied July 04, 2024, 12:38 PM EDT
Well, heck. I think it's fire blight, also.Thank you, I appreciate the help!
On Thu, Jul 4, 2024 at 11:38 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied July 04, 2024, 1:35 PM EDT
You are welcome.  Good luck.
MaryKay, Master Gardener, Tree Care Advisor Replied July 04, 2024, 1:37 PM EDT

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