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What's wrong with my Italian plum tree? #907655

Asked June 28, 2025, 6:22 PM EDT

Hello, I have an Italian plum tree that is in its second summer in my garden. I water it deeply throughout the summer. There are no other fruit trees near it. Last month (early June) it began showing brown spots and curling leaves. There are no visible insects on the leaves. What is the problem? How serious is it (will it kill the tree)? What should I do? I am trying to maintain an organic garden if possible. Thank you!

Lane County Oregon

Expert Response

Image is showing older leaves with larger necrotic spots. I suspect you have a fungal disease called shothole. It could be a few other leaf spots except the one called Blumeriella where the spots stay very small. Outside of cultural control tactics there are very few organic materials to use. Look here for some options: https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/prune-plum-prunus-spp-leaf-spots
Jay W. Pscheidt, PhD, Professor Replied June 30, 2025, 1:13 PM EDT

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