Leaf Curl - Symptoms

Symptoms

Leaf Curl has characteristics that are very differentiating and easily noticeable. Diseased leaves can usually be picked out early after leaving the bud due to their reddish color and arched shape. As the leaves develop, they appear distorted and fold their tips backwards. Diseased leaves are usually thicker and softer than the normal, unharmed leaves. The colors of the leaves are also unique. Instead of the normal green spring leaves, the colors turn yellow, followed by purple, until finally a whitish bloom covers each leaf. Twigs may show signs of sickness, such as being black in color and swollen. Fruit can be affected, showing a reddish color. Infected leaves fall early. The tree may produce a second crop of leaves that is never diseased, because the fungus cannot survive at the higher temperatures in late spring and early summer. The fungus prefers the high humidity in the early spring because it permits spores to germinate. If the tree is infected for consecutive years death may occur.