Bosc pear leaf - Ask Extension
Most of the leaves on my pear have rusty spots on them. What is it and what can I do about it?
Thanks
Debi Stedron
Knowledgebase
Bosc pear leaf #842455
Asked July 24, 2023, 11:11 PM EDT
Most of the leaves on my pear have rusty spots on them. What is it and what can I do about it?
Thanks
Debi Stedron
Multnomah County Oregon
Expert Response
Thank you for your question, Debi. Your tree appears to be infected with pear rust, a fungus described here: https://pnwhandbooks.org/plantdisease/host-disease/pear-pyrus-spp-trellis-rust-european-pear-rust
You will note that juniper is listed as an "alternative host" of the fungus. So, the fungus lives on both species, as spores travel by air between them. So long as there are juniper within 1000 feet (or 3 - 4 miles, depending upon the source of information), the fungus will persist. You can try using any of the chemicals listed (although most or all may not be available to homeowners) according to label directions. Once the fungus has grown on (and into) the pear leaves, chemicals are ineffective, since fungicides are more preventative than curative. Sorry there is little you can do. Good luck!
You will note that juniper is listed as an "alternative host" of the fungus. So, the fungus lives on both species, as spores travel by air between them. So long as there are juniper within 1000 feet (or 3 - 4 miles, depending upon the source of information), the fungus will persist. You can try using any of the chemicals listed (although most or all may not be available to homeowners) according to label directions. Once the fungus has grown on (and into) the pear leaves, chemicals are ineffective, since fungicides are more preventative than curative. Sorry there is little you can do. Good luck!