Anthracnose is a fungal disease caused by several different fungi that are closely related. All of the fungi are generally host-specific, meaning they can only affect one type of tree. The disease spreads in spring when it is cool and wet. The effect on an infected tree can vary, but it will generally cause the leaves to have brown blotches, and become cupped or curled. Severe cases can result in premature leaf drop in the spring / summer.
Treating Anthracnose is generally not necessary, as it is not going to significantly affect the health of the tree. Treatment is only recommended if the tree has lost most or all of its leaves several years in a row due to the Anthracnose fungi.
Bonide Infuse™ Systemic Disease Control is the fungicide that we recommend using for the treatment of Anthracnose. It is available in a ready to spray (attach to the hose) container. See chart below for timing and frequency recommendations.
Application #1 | Application #2 |
Buds break & leaves are approximately 1/3 their mature size | 7-10 days after initial application |