Leaf Curl - Control of The Disease

Control of The Disease

Although various methods are under investigation, spraying the leaves with fungicides is the most common and efficient control method. Spraying should be done well before budding. The climate determines the type of fungicide used and how often, since experiments have shown that the fungi are temperature-dependent. Copper-based mixtures and lime sulfurs are two fungicides commonly used.

If a plant appears to have symptoms of leaf curl in a particular year, precautions can be taken to maximize crop yield for that spring: for example, treating with nitrogen and excess water to minimize stress on the plant. Thinning the tree might also help it focus on producing good peaches. Removing the infected leaves and fruit after they fall to the ground can help prevent the infection from returning the following year. Fungicide might also be used before winter on the tree.