Knowledgebase

What is wrong with my apple trees #874703

Asked June 25, 2024, 7:56 PM EDT

Trying to identify problems with my Apple trees

Howard County Maryland

Expert Response

The yellow-orange leaf spotting is an indicator of rust, a kind of fungal infection. (In particular, it looks like Cedar-Apple Rust.) Although less clear in the photos, there also seem to be indications of Apple Scab, a different but equally-common fungal disease of apples and their relatives.

Both can be preventatively managed by using fungicides labeled for these diseases, starting early in spring. Fungicide use now would not provide any benefit, and such treatments cannot cure existing disease. Apples and most fruit trees are high-maintenance plants and require yearly pesticide intervention (organic or otherwise) to help protect growth and prevent potential crop ruin for that growing season. You can certainly opt to not use pesticides if you prefer, but be aware that, some years, tree damage, dieback, or crop loss will occur, some of which can build up to levels that cause significant or long-term damage. If you were spraying this spring, perhaps weather (with all the rain we had at the time) interrupted a spray schedule enough to allow for infection despite fungicide use, which is not uncommon.

Our Growing Apple and Pear Trees in a Home Garden page provides more information about routine tree care plus common problems and their management.

Miri

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