Zestar Tree Dying - Ask Extension
I have 4 variety of apple trees - Zestar, Fireside, Honeycrisp and State Fair. The Zestar trees seemed to be the healthiest this spring with many blo...
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Zestar Tree Dying #879038
Asked July 27, 2024, 4:50 PM EDT
I have 4 variety of apple trees - Zestar, Fireside, Honeycrisp and State Fair. The Zestar trees seemed to be the healthiest this spring with many blossoms and growth. However, both have wilted and died in just about 3-4 weeks, All other varieties appear to be healthy and in the same area as the Zestar.
Mille Lacs County Minnesota
Expert Response
I can;t say for certain from photos but this could be apple scab. We are seeing a lot of it this year. Some varieties are more susceptible than others. It’s attacked fast.
Usually, trees will recover from it but these look to be very young trees. When were they planted? I would keep them well watered and see if they come back next year. They may leaf out again later this year too.
Be sure to do good clean up of all leaf debris. The spores overwinter in the debris.
