Leaf Curl of Peaches and Nectarines

Taphrina deformans

Description:

A fungal disease causing severe puckering, curling, thickening and distortion of leaves in early spring to summer. The affected areas are initially light green but often turn to yellows, reds and purples. A white growth may appear on the surface as the leaves die and fall. Small, infected fruit usually fall also.

In Apricot the symptoms are similar but the leaves tend to bunch together on infected shoots.

Species Affected:

Almond, Apricot, Nectarine, Peach.

Peaches and Nectarines are the most severely affected.

Blackburn and Alberta Peaches appear to be more susceptible than other varieties.

Biology:

Leaves are affected as they emerge from the bud in spring.

By the time symptoms are seen it is too late for control in the current season.

Life Cycle:

Origin and History:

Distribution:

Significance:

Management and Control:

Apply fungicides just before bud burst. Timing is critical.

Related and Similar Species:

Green Peach Aphid also causes similar curling of leaves.

References:

1205

Acknowledgments:

Collated by HerbiGuide. Phone 08 98444064 for more information.