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Bush partially dead. Fungus? #879124

Asked July 28, 2024, 2:51 PM EDT

Hi I have an ornamental flowering bush that last year had a dead branch that looked like had fungus and I cut it off at the base. But this year it's partially dead on the other side. Not sure why is there something I can do to save it

Anoka County Minnesota

Expert Response

Good Morning Lisa, 

Thank you for contacting the U of M Extension Service. 

Please click on the following link from the U of M Extension Yard and Garden website about leaf spot diseases: https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/leaf-spot-diseases-trees-and-shrubs

From viewing your photos, your shrub is up against a tall fence. If you scroll through the above information it states: 

  • Do not overcrowd plants — use size at maturity as a spacing guide when planting.
  • Prune trees or shrubs to increase light penetration and improve air circulation throughout the canopy.
  • Wet conditions promote disease, so water trees at the base and be careful not to splash water on leaves. A drip or soaker hose works best for this. Avoid sprinklers.

With the cool and wet weather we've had this spring, there are many leaf spot diseases on shrubs. 

Good Luck!

Maureen Graber Replied July 29, 2024, 8:12 AM EDT
Thanks. Should I prune the bush back a bit this fall or wait until spring?

On Mon, Jul 29, 2024, 7:12 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied July 29, 2024, 8:31 AM EDT

I believe your shrub is some type of cherry. Please review the next link for pruning guidelines: 

https://extension.umn.edu/planting-and-growing-guides/pruning-trees-and-shrubs#trees-and-shrubs-to-prune-after-blooming-1336761

Good Luck!

Maureen Graber Replied July 29, 2024, 8:57 AM EDT

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