Crab apple trees - Knowledgebase Question

Dundee, Il
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Question by jankees
March 21, 2009
Every year my crab apple trees loose their leaves in the summer. I was told that putting a chemical around the base of them in the spring will stop this. What causes them to loose their leaves, and what is the name of the chemical that will stop this?


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Answer from NGA
March 21, 2009
Soil pH can cause problems with crabapple trees and what you apply will depend upon your soil's pH and whether you need to raise or lower the pH. A soil test will guide you if that's what the problem is.

Crabapples are susceptible to fungal disease and that can also cause leaf loss. The most common fungal diseases start with leaf spotting, yellowing and then leaf drop. If the leaves are developing spots and then falling, a protective fungicide will stop the infection. Lime-sulfur or a copper based fungicide, sprayed early in the season, before flowering and after the petals fall will protect your crabapple. Apply according to label directions.

Good luck with your crabapple trees!

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