
Symptoms:
This is one of the most destructive diseases in all areas east of the Rockies. Symptoms are first visible about 3-5 weeks after petal fall as small, water-soaked, browning lesions. Early symptoms on fruit can be mistaken for insect damage. During periods of high humidity, gum may exude from these lesions.
Solutions:
Currently there is no specific spray product completely effective for controlling bacterial spot. Spraying with a soil inoculant containing the naturally occurring bacterium Bacillus subtilis or using a harpin protein-based product at 1/4 teaspoon per quart of water (or a 0.35-ounce pack per 3 gallons of water) as a preventive spray will increase plant vigor, which will, in turn, help to fight the disease. We recommend Plant Guardian™ Liquid Concentrate and Green Guard™ Plant Growth Enhancer. Fertilizing with Fruit Trees Alive!® according to label directions is also a critical step in helping trees fight problems.