Septoria Leaf Spot and Canker
Septoria spp.
11 host plants
Last updated
Septoria leaf spot and canker causes lesions on leaves and stems with characteristic fruiting bodies. Remove infected foliage and branches. Improve air circulation. Avoid overhead watering. Apply fungicides preventively if disease pressure is high. Canker management requires prompt removal of infected branches and careful attention to tree health and vigor Early detection and prompt management of symptoms help limit disease spread.
Prune out cankered branches at least six inches below visible symptoms, making cuts into healthy wood. Sterilize your tools between cuts. Canker pathogens typically enter through wounds, so minimize pruning injuries and avoid working on trees when bark is wet. Maintain tree vigor through proper watering and avoid stress from drought or compacted soil, which makes trees more susceptible.
Quick Reference
Management
Cultural Controls
- Remove and destroy infected leaves. Leaves may be composted if completely decayed before spring. Make use of any practice that encourages decomposition of fallen leaves prior to spring bud break, such as mowing or flailing. Apply urea to leaves after leaf fall in autumn to enhance decomposition of fallen leaves.
- Rake and destroy leaves in fall. Grow other, more resistant species of Crataegus.