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Service berry question #751096

Asked May 20, 2021, 2:29 PM EDT

My service berry tree has some lumpy growths on the limbs. Is there something wrong with it? If so what is it and what do I need to do to treat it? Thank you!

Greenville County South Carolina

Expert Response

Hi Sherry,  This serviceberry has rust, a type of fungus found in the Pacific Northwest.  The alternate host for this disease is juniper, so wondering if you have juniper nearby.  Here is some additional information about this disease and how to manage it.  Spectracide Immunox is one that homeowners can buy and use.  https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/serviceberry-amelanchier-spp-rust 

Thanks,  

Amy Jo Detweiler,  Professor and Extension Horticulturist Replied May 21, 2021, 5:55 PM EDT
Hi,

Thank you for the information.  I don’t have any juniper in my yard.  Would I be better off to remove the tree?  It’s still fairly young and I could remove it very easily.

Thank you!

Sherry

Sent from my iPhone

On May 21, 2021, at 5:55 PM, Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:


The Question Asker Replied May 21, 2021, 6:59 PM EDT

Serviceberry are prone to rust which is likely the problem https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/serviceberry-amelanchier-spp-rust

Cultural controls include the removal of juniper and cedar which act as host for the fungus.  if this is the issue, the only chemical control available to homeowners is 

"Spectracide Immunox Multi-Purpose Fungicide Spray Concentrate for Gardens at 1 fl oz/gal water. Group 3 fungicide"

Regards and happy gardening! Replied May 21, 2021, 9:17 PM EDT

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