Plum tree leaves holes - Ask Extension
I'm trying to figure out what caused the plum tree leave holes and what to do about it? I purchased two different plum trees from a nursery in Stillwa...
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Plum tree leaves holes #931673
Asked May 14, 2026, 12:31 PM EDT
I'm trying to figure out what caused the plum tree leave holes and what to do about it? I purchased two different plum trees from a nursery in Stillwater, MN and planted in NE Minneapolis area home April 2026 is from pests, or fungi, and what I should do about it? The other tree is completely fine. I have one Toka and Black Ice variety. I think the black ice is the one that had a few holes on some leaves.
Anoka County Minnesota
Expert Response
Stephanie,
Couple of suspects here, and they are not exclusive from one another:
- Cherry Shot-hole Disease: Despite the name, this can affect plums. Do not apply any chemical treatments unless you get a positive ID from the Plant Disease Clinic. Spending lots of money to treat the wrong disease is not fun. Otherwise, raking up fallen leaves this year and removing them from your yard can help. So can proper pruning, which can allow more airflow.
- Caterpillars: This time of year, most of the damage from leaves are coming from caterpillars, not Japanese beetles who come later. They often spin up webs or leave other evidence (frass/droppings, or catching them in the act)
Hope this puts you on the right track!
Best,
Shane
