DiseaseFungal disease
Apple scab
A fungal disease that causes olive-brown blotches on leaves and corky, cracked scabs on apples and pears.
Also known as: Pear scab, Venturia
Symptoms and identification
Dark olive-green to brown velvety spots on leaves, which may yellow and drop early. Fruit develops dark, corky scabs that may crack.
Causes
The fungus survives in fallen leaves and releases spores in wet spring weather.
Organic treatment
Remove fallen leaves and infected fruit. Sulphur or copper sprays from bud break through wet spring weather can protect susceptible trees.
Prevention
Grow resistant varieties, rake up and destroy fallen leaves in autumn, and prune for good airflow.
Chemical treatment (use with care)
Use a fungicide labelled for scab, starting at bud break during wet weather.