A Kansas State University horticulture expert says prevention is the best cure for peach leaf curl, a fungus that was common in peach, nectarine and apricot trees last year.
Cynthia Domenghini said the fungus causes leaves to appear swollen and curled, reddish or purplish colors and leads to premature leaf and fruit drop.
“If your tree(s) had it last year, prepare for a resurgence unless trees are treated in early spring,” Domenghini said. “This fungus overwinters on the bark of the tree.”
Spring rains can wash the spores of peach leaf curl to developing buds and leaf tissue, spreading and infecting the new tissues. For this reason, Domenghini said, it is important to treat the tree with fungicide before the buds are able to swell.
Applying fungicide after symptoms appear on tree leaves is ineffective, she added.
“Fungicide must be applied during spring dormancy or during fall when most of the leaves have dropped. Always follow label instructions when using pesticides,” Domenghini said.
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Categories: Kansas, Crops