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Apple trees losing leaves #880305

Asked August 05, 2024, 4:42 PM EDT

I have 4 apple trees that I grow on cables. (Espalier) I prune them many time per season to keep their shape. I spray them with home fruit tree spray regularly. This season they are loosing their leaves at the end of July. They are honey crisp and gala.

Kent County Michigan

Expert Response

Hi Fred, thanks for the question.

This may very well be apple scab.  It's a little hard to tell from the pictures.  Removing and destroying the leaves is important since they can carry the pathogen.  Timing of spraying for this problem is important.  Check out the following links;

Apple scab of apples and crabapples | UMN Extension

Apple Scab – Wisconsin Horticulture

Apple scab - Integrated Pest Management (msu.edu)

If this doesn't fit what you are seeing, send some close up well focused pictures of the leaves (front and back). Also, include when and what you are spraying.

I hope this is helpful.

An Ask Extension Expert Replied August 08, 2024, 10:15 AM EDT

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