Cherry trees in our region have numerous leaf problems due to various diseases. A fruit tree planted in the soil of a home garden seldom needs to be fertilized with a packaged product. In general, such trees receive adequate fertilizer elements if mulched with compost. Then, too, trees in our region are seldom short of iron because of the prevailing acid reaction of local soils. So, we need to determine what is going on before you add an unnecessary fertilizer.

To start the diagnostic process, please send me at least 3 images: one of the tree and its surroundings; a 2nd of a midway shot which shows the distribution of the affected leaves; a 3rd shot which is a close-up view of affected leaves and/or branches.

Also include some of the history of the tree.  Some of the details that may be useful include these:

- When and how it was planted (Did you do it, or a previous owner?);

- How do you water it (sprinkler; hand-held hose; drip; or?);

- How often do you water during the summer?;

- How do you decide when the tree has received adequate water?

I look forward to receiving your pictures and information.

My consultant and I think that, even though it doesn’t appear that herbicides have been applied on your side of the fence, they are causing the off-color leaves. That idea is supported by the fact that only a portion of the tree appears to be affected.

There are suggestions in your images that the new leaves at the tips of the affected branches are normal. That would indicate the tree is already outgrowing the problem. (If so, please send me a picture that shows both normal and affected leaves on the same branch.)