Micro-Organisms - native

Cherry Leaf Spot (Blumeriella jaapii) on Jul 19, 2008

Submitter has sample

Description of specimen

strange fungas like things all over a wild cherry tree leaves

Commentary

Mishelle, from your description and the picture, it sounds like your tree has cherry leaf spot. See the website at: http://ohioline.osu.edu/hyg-fact/3000/3021.html

In particular, this description - "Whitish-pink masses of sticky spores (conidia) form within the spots on the undersides of infected leaves during periods of damp weather. After six to eight weeks, the centers of the spots may dry up and drop out, giving a "shot-hole" appearance. The "shot-hole" effect is more common on sour than on sweet cherries" - seems to indicate this disease.

Here's an Oregon State University extension publication on the same disease (something a little closer to home) - http://plant-disease.ippc.orst.edu/disease.cfm?RecordID=282

Thanks for your report! A local nursery should be able to help you deal with this disease, although both articles offer excellent tips for cultural and chemical controls.

Lisa DeBruyckere
July 29, 2008, 6:27 a.m.