Leaf Blight
Fungal agents (multiple)
46 host plants
Last updated
Water-soaked lesions expand into brown spots with distinctly darker margins, causing significant premature defoliation that weakens the plant substantially. Remove affected foliage immediately when symptoms appear, improve soil drainage around roots, and space plants for air movement. Rake fallen leaves regularly throughout the season. Avoid overhead watering which keeps foliage wet and spreads fungal spores.
Propagate from disease-free stock plants. Use seed from British Columbia coastal, low-elevation populations.
Quick Reference
Management
The symptoms typically appear first in late spring as bleached spots followed by brown or black cush | One such problem, madrone leaf blight, appears to be caused by a pathogen that damages leaves after | Make applications in spring and early summer.
Cultural Controls
- Until more is known about fungal leaf blight on madrone, good sanitation practices should be used when practical.
- Clean up and dispose of fallen blighted leaves around valuable landscape trees.
- Avoid stressing madrones with poor planting location or improper culture.
- They prefer native soils with excellent drainage, grow best in full or partial sun, and can tolerate poor soils.
- Good air circulation is important since fungal diseases are more severe in crowded, humid conditions.
- Do not irrigate established trees, as they are adapted to summer drought.