Malformed pie cherries - Ask Extension
Our many-years'-old Northstar sour cherry tree was heavy with blossoms this spring which made us giddy with anticipation for a bumper crop. But the tr...
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Malformed pie cherries #876212
Asked July 07, 2024, 4:29 PM EDT
Our many-years'-old Northstar sour cherry tree was heavy with blossoms this spring which made us giddy with anticipation for a bumper crop. But the tree has produced very little quality fruit. The leaves on the ends of the branches are healthy but there are few leaves more inward. The fruit has, for the most part, not developed. The fruit developed black dots and then the whole cherry started to shrivel and die. Most recently, I have observed a few areas with webbing on the branches and cherries but I'm wondering if it's in response to what's going on, rather than a cause.
What might the problem be? How do I deal with it, preferably organically?
Is my Montmorency in danger? It's about 50 feet away and thus far, doesn't show the same symptoms.
Thank you for your help.
Boulder County Colorado
Expert Response
Oh, that is very unfortunate. You did have a good crop going!
I am attaching some information on cherry tree diseases. The information does indicate that you must treat and remove diseased branches or trees, or it may spread to other trees.
EB1323 (wsu.edu)
Cherry Diseases & Disorders - Fruit & Nut Research & Information Center (ucanr.edu)
We cannot provide a diagnosis with photos. But you can request a diagnosis with a tree and fruit sample.
For Diagnostics: Turn around up to 10 business days. $7.00 cost to Boulder County residents.
Bring sample to Boulder Extension office, 9595 Nelson Road in Longmont, by the fairgrounds. 8-4:30 Mon-Friday.
Provide a branch about 18” in length with both good and bad on same sample (must have living tissue) in a plastic bag.
Fill out a diagnostic request sheet at window and pay the $7 fee.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Boulder County Master Gardener
CSU Extension service
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I am attaching some information on cherry tree diseases. The information does indicate that you must treat and remove diseased branches or trees, or it may spread to other trees.
EB1323 (wsu.edu)
Cherry Diseases & Disorders - Fruit & Nut Research & Information Center (ucanr.edu)
We cannot provide a diagnosis with photos. But you can request a diagnosis with a tree and fruit sample.
For Diagnostics: Turn around up to 10 business days. $7.00 cost to Boulder County residents.
Bring sample to Boulder Extension office, 9595 Nelson Road in Longmont, by the fairgrounds. 8-4:30 Mon-Friday.
Provide a branch about 18” in length with both good and bad on same sample (must have living tissue) in a plastic bag.
Fill out a diagnostic request sheet at window and pay the $7 fee.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Boulder County Master Gardener
CSU Extension service
<personal data hidden>
<personal data hidden>
