March 20, 2025 Alex Dover

Cherry Trees Disease

Few things are more rewarding than growing a healthy cherry tree, but diseases can quickly turn that dream into a struggle.

If you're dealing with discolored leaves, fruit rot, or unexplained sap oozing from the trunk, you've come to the right place.

Understanding cherry trees disease is the key to preventing problems before they start and treating them effectively when they arise.

In this article, we'll cover the most common diseases affecting cherry trees, how to spot early warning signs, what causes these issues, and the best ways to prevent and treat them.

So, if you're ready to protect your cherry trees and keep them thriving for years to come, continue reading.

What this article covers:

Common Diseases That Affect Cherry Trees
Identifying Symptoms of Cherry Tree Diseases
Causes of Cherry Tree Diseases
Preventing Cherry Tree Diseases
Treatment Options for Cherry Tree Diseases
Managing Pests That Contribute to Cherry Tree Disease
Caring for Your Cherry Tree During Recovery
When to Call a Professional for Cherry Tree Disease

Common Diseases That Affect Cherry Trees

Blossom and Blight

Blossom and Blight, commonly caused by the fungus Monilinia laxa, affects the blossoms and fruit of cherry trees.

Infected flowers wilt and turn brown, often adhering to the twig, while the developing fruit exhibits soft brown spots that expand rapidly.

This disease thrives in warm, wet conditions, making early detection and management vital to prevent significant crop loss.

Bacterial Canker

Bacterial Canker is a severe disease caused by Pseudomonas syringae. It manifests as sunken, dead areas on the bark, often accompanied by a gummy ooze.

Leaves may develop brown spots and fall prematurely. This disease typically enters through wounds and is more prevalent in cool, wet weather.

X-Disease (Cherry Buckskin)

X-Disease, also known as Cherry Buckskin, is a viral infection transmitted by leafhoppers. Affected trees produce small, leathery fruits that fail to ripen properly.

Leaves may show red discoloration, and overall tree vigor declines. Managing vector populations and removing infected trees are essential control measures.

Phytophthora Root Rot

Phytophthora Root Rot is a soil-borne fungal disease that attacks the roots, leading to reduced water and nutrient uptake.

Symptoms include leaf wilting, yellowing, and stunted growth. This disease favors poorly drained soils, emphasizing the importance of proper site selection and soil management.

Identifying Symptoms of Cherry Tree Diseases

Leaf Discoloration and Wilting

Changes in leaf color, such as yellowing, browning, or reddening, often indicate disease presence. Wilting leaves, especially during adequate soil moisture, can signal root-related issues like Phytophthora Root Rot.

Unexplained Sap or Oozing from Branches

The appearance of gum-like sap oozing from branches or trunks, known as gummosis, can be a response to infections like Bacterial Canker.

This symptom indicates the tree's attempt to seal off and protect itself from pathogens.

Fruit Damage and Deformities

Diseased fruits may exhibit spots, rot, or unusual growth patterns.

For instance, Blossom and Blight causes brown, decayed areas on the fruit, while X-Disease leads to small, misshapen fruits that don't ripen correctly.

Causes of Cherry Tree Diseases

Fungal Infections

Fungal pathogens are a primary cause of diseases in cherry trees, spreading through spores carried by wind, rain, or contaminated tools.

Wet and humid conditions create an ideal environment for fungi to thrive, making moisture management essential in preventing infections.

For instance, brown rot (Monilinia fructicola) affects blossoms and fruit, leading to browning and decay.

Similarly, powdery mildew (Podosphaera clandestina) presents as white, powdery patches on leaves and fruit, distorting growth and reducing fruit quality.

Implementing proper sanitation, ensuring adequate air circulation through pruning cherry trees, and applying appropriate fungicides can help manage these fungal diseases.

If you're wondering when to plant cherry trees, choosing a time when fungal pressure is low, such as early spring or fall, can reduce disease risks.

Bacterial Infections

Bacterial infections in cherry trees often enter through wounds caused by pruning, insect activity, or environmental damage.

Once inside, bacteria such as Pseudomonas syringae, responsible for bacterial canker, can spread rapidly, especially under cool, moist conditions.

Symptoms include sunken, dark cankers on branches, gumming, and dieback of twigs and limbs.

To minimize infection risks, avoid pruning during wet weather, sterilize tools before use, and manage tree stress through proper watering and fertilization practices.

A well-maintained tree has a significantly longer lifespan—so if you're asking how long do cherry trees live, know that healthy, disease-free cherry trees can thrive for decades with proper care.

Viral Infections

Viruses affecting cherry trees are typically transmitted by insect vectors like leafhoppers or through grafting with infected plant material.

Diseases such as LCV2 (Little Cherry Virus-2) result in small, poorly colored, and bland-tasting fruits. Infected trees may also exhibit delayed leafing, reduced vigor, and dieback.

Since there are no direct treatments for viral infections, prevention is crucial.

This includes using virus-free planting material, controlling insect vectors, and removing and destroying infected trees to prevent the spread of the virus.

Those practicing rooting cherry tree cuttings in winter should ensure that cuttings come from disease-free trees to avoid introducing viral infections into new plantings.

Environmental Stressors and Poor Care

Environmental factors such as improper watering, nutrient deficiencies, and mechanical injuries can predispose cherry trees to diseases.

Stress weakens the tree's natural defenses, making it more susceptible to infections. For example, waterlogged soils can lead to root rot, while drought stress can cause leaf scorch and reduce overall vigor.

Mechanical injuries from improper pruning or equipment damage provide entry points for pathogens.

To maintain tree health, ensure proper site selection with well-draining soil, adhere to recommended watering schedules, provide balanced fertilization based on soil tests, and employ careful pruning techniques.

Understanding how to prune a cherry tree that has never been pruned is essential to avoid unnecessary stress and injury to the tree, which can make it more vulnerable to disease.

Preventing Cherry Tree Diseases

Choosing Disease-Resistant Varieties

Selecting cherry varieties bred for disease resistance is a proactive way to minimize potential problems.

At Raintree Nursery, we offer a range of resilient cultivars suited to various climates and conditions.

That's why we recommend Black Gold and White Gold cherries to ensure a healthy and productive orchard.

The Black Gold cherry is a late-blooming, self-fertile variety known for its large, firm, deep red (almost black) fruit. It is particularly valued for its resistance to cracking and adaptability to different climates.

The White Gold cherry, on the other hand, produces beautiful yellow cherries with a red blush.

This self-fertile variety is highly resistant to bacterial canker and leaf spot, making it an excellent choice for growers seeking robust and low-maintenance trees.

By choosing these disease-resistant varieties, you can enjoy bountiful harvests while reducing the need for chemical interventions.

Proper Tree Spacing and Airflow

Adequate spacing between trees ensures good air circulation, reducing humidity levels around the foliage.

This practice helps prevent the development and spread of fungal diseases.

Regular Pruning and Sanitation

Pruning cherry trees to remove dead or diseased wood improves air circulation and light penetration.

Always use sterilized tools to prevent pathogen transmission and dispose of pruned material properly to avoid contamination.

Maintaining Soil Health

Healthy soil supports robust root systems.

Regularly test soil to ensure balanced pH and nutrient levels. Incorporating organic matter enhances soil structure and drainage, reducing the risk of root-related diseases.

Treatment Options for Cherry Tree Diseases

Fungicide Treatments

For fungal infections like Blossom and Fruit Rot, applying appropriate fungicides can be effective.

It's essential to follow label instructions and apply treatments at recommended times for maximum efficacy.

Bacterial and Viral Disease Management

Managing bacterial diseases involves removing and destroying infected plant parts and applying bactericides when necessary.

Viral infections often require removing affected trees to prevent spread, as there are no direct antiviral treatments for plants.

Natural and Organic Remedies

Utilizing organic treatments, such as neem oil or copper-based sprays, can help manage certain diseases.

Additionally, promoting beneficial microorganisms in the soil can enhance the tree's natural defenses.

Managing Pests That Contribute to Cherry Tree Disease

Common Pests and Their Role in Spreading Disease

Insects like aphids, leafhoppers, and borers can transmit diseases or create entry points for pathogens.

Monitoring and controlling these pests are vital to prevent disease outbreaks.

Effective Pest Control Methods

Implement integrated pest management (IPM) strategies, including regular monitoring, introducing natural predators, and applying organic or chemical controls when necessary.

Maintaining tree health also makes them less attractive to pests.

Caring for Your Cherry Tree During Recovery

How to Support Tree Health After Disease

After addressing the disease, focus on supporting the tree's recovery through proper watering, mulching, and avoiding additional stressors. Ensure the tree receives adequate nutrients to rebuild its strength.

Fertilization and Watering Best Practices

Apply balanced fertilizers based on soil test recommendations to provide essential nutrients. Water the tree deeply but infrequently, allowing the soil to dry slightly between waterings to prevent root issues.

When to Call a Professional for Cherry Tree Disease

Signs That Require Expert Intervention

If you observe rapid decline, extensive dieback, or if the disease persists despite your efforts, it's time to consult a professional arborist.

They can provide accurate diagnoses and recommend advanced treatment options.

Choosing the Right Arborist for Disease Management

Select a certified arborist with experience in fruit tree care.

They should be knowledgeable about local disease issues and equipped to offer both preventive and remedial services.

Conclusion

Maintaining the health of your cherry trees involves vigilance, proper care, and timely interventions.

By understanding common diseases and their management, you can enjoy the beauty and bounty these trees offer.

At Raintree Nursery, we're committed to supporting you with high-quality, disease-resistant varieties and expert advice. Visit our website or contact us for more information on cultivating healthy cherry trees.

If you want to learn more, check out these articles below:

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