{"id":18993,"date":"2024-02-07T14:25:09","date_gmt":"2024-02-07T12:25:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.branchthetree.com\/?p=18993"},"modified":"2024-02-07T14:25:09","modified_gmt":"2024-02-07T12:25:09","slug":"what-are-the-orange-spots-on-my-apple-tree-leaves","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.branchthetree.com\/what-are-the-orange-spots-on-my-apple-tree-leaves\/","title":{"rendered":"What Are The Orange Spots On My Apple Tree Leaves"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Most likely the orange spots on your apple tree leaves are caused by a fungal disease called Cedar-Apple Rust (Gymnosporangium juniperi-virginianae). This is a widespread plant pathogen found in many parts of the world. The presence of these spots is a definite indication that the pathogen is present and should not be ignored. Controlling this disease requires an understanding of the entire disease cycle and the appropriate measures that need to be taken to effectively reduce its impact.<\/p>\n

This disease is primarily caused by a fungus that cycles through two different hosts. Spores of the pathogen (known as urediniospores) develop in late spring on cedar trees and junipers where they form orange-brown galls. In early summer, the spores are spread by wind and splashing rain to apple, pear and other related plants. On these trees, the spores germinate and form structures that produce and release aeciospores. In late summer, these aeciospores are released and cause the same orange spots on apple trees, pear trees and other related plants.<\/p>\n

The orange spots are small, round, orange pustules on the surface of the leaves. The presence of these spots can be a sign of severe infection. The spots become more numerous with additional spores released between late summer and early fall. The more spots present on the leaves, the more severe the infection. Treatment of this disease needs to be taken very seriously in order to avoid irreversible damage to the trees and compromise the quality of the fruit.<\/p>\n

The best way to control Cedar-Apple Rust is to practice proper cultural management. This includes selection of plant species that are resistant to the disease; pruning of infected trees or branches; and removal and disposal of all infected leaves. In addition, fungicides should be used to prevent spore production. Fungicides should be used multiple times during the season, beginning when the disease is first visible but repeated as often as necessary to keep the infection in check.<\/p>\n