New fig trees red spots - Ask Extension
Hi, I’m seeing either yellowing lower leaves or these red spots on the lower leaves of my figs. Affecting LSU purple, and all fig types in backyard....
Knowledgebase
New fig trees red spots #876002
Asked July 05, 2024, 1:04 PM EDT
Hi, I’m seeing either yellowing lower leaves or these red spots on the lower leaves of my figs. Affecting LSU purple, and all fig types in backyard. Direct sun. Heavy marine clay soil amended at planting with tree tone, peat moss, bone meal and compost.
Anne Arundel County Maryland
Expert Response
Hi- the tiny white spots (stiples) may be the result of spider mite feeding. Mites are favored by hot, dry weather and their feeding injury is being observed on many crops across the state. The red/brown spots are not caused by a disease. They are likely a symptom of significant spider mite feeding.
Look closely at the leaf undersides with a hand lens or magnifier to observe the mites and their webbing material. Mites are deterred by wet, humid conditions, so spraying down your fig trees with water during the day will dislodge and deter them. Spraying insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can burn leaves when temperatures are >85 degrees F. Also, these pesticides can further injure foliage when spider mite feeding is severe.
You may want to have your soil tested to get baseline information on soil pH, nutrient levels, and organic matter content:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/soil-testing-and-soil-testing-labs/
Jon
Look closely at the leaf undersides with a hand lens or magnifier to observe the mites and their webbing material. Mites are deterred by wet, humid conditions, so spraying down your fig trees with water during the day will dislodge and deter them. Spraying insecticidal soap or horticultural oil can burn leaves when temperatures are >85 degrees F. Also, these pesticides can further injure foliage when spider mite feeding is severe.
You may want to have your soil tested to get baseline information on soil pH, nutrient levels, and organic matter content:
https://extension.umd.edu/resource/soil-testing-and-soil-testing-labs/
Jon
Thanks so much Jon!
