Knowledgebase
Sand cherry (prunus x cistena ) spotted leaves #764685
Asked July 29, 2021, 5:45 PM EDT
Livingston County Michigan
Expert Response
Hello,
This looks like cherry leaf spot, a common disease on some cherries.
Here is management information from Extension—-
- Sanitation is a critical component of cherry leaf spot control.
- Rake up and compost fallen cherry leaves in September or October.
- The fungus survives the winter in fallen leaves. Removing these leaves will reduce disease spores the next spring.
- Fungicide applications should be started two weeks after bloom when leaves are completely unfolded. Applications should be repeated throughout the growing season at the interval listed on the fungicide label, including one application after harvest.
- Fungicides with an active ingredient of myclobutanil or captan will protect leaves from infection with cherry leaf spot when applied properly.
- The leaf spot fungi may develop resistance to myclobutanil if this fungicide is applied too often.
- To avoid fungicide resistance, alternate between myclobutanil and captan when making repeated fungicide applications.
- Fungicides with an active ingredient of copper may provide some protection against leaf spot infection.
- Some copper fungicides are acceptable for organic production.
- Fungicides work best if combined with sanitation.
Fungicides
If your trees have dropped the majority of their leaves before September, for several years in a row, fungicides can be used to protect leaves.
Use Fungicides Safely
The name of the plant being treated MUST BE LISTED on the fungicide label or the product cannot be used! Some products are registered for use on ornamental Prunus species but are not safe to use on stone fruit that will be eaten. Always completely read and follow all instructions on the fungicide label.
Post harvest interval is important
Take care to wait the complete 'post harvest interval' (PHI) listed on the label. The PHI is the number of days you must wait after applying a fungicide before harvest of edible fruit is allowed. This time period allows fungicide residue to break down to a safe level.
CAUTION: Mention of a pesticide or use of a pesticide label is for educational purposes only. Always follow the pesticide label directions attached to the pesticide container you are using. Be sure that the plant you wish to treat is listed on the label of the pesticide you intend to use. And observe the number of days between pesticide application and when you can harvest your crop. Remember, the label is the law.
The complete article on cherry leaf spot is here—
https://extension.umn.edu/plant-diseases/cherry-leaf-spot
You are very welcome, glad to help