Bacterial disease
Peach Bacterial Spot
A bacterial disease of peach trees that spots the leaves, leaves holes behind and marks the fruit.
Symptoms
- Small, water-soaked spots that turn purple-brown
- Spot centres falling out, leaving a "shot-hole" look
- Yellow leaves dropping early, and pitted or cracked spots on fruit
What causes it
The bacteria spread in wind-driven rain and are worst in warm, wet, windy weather and on sandy soil.
What you can do
- Choose resistant varieties when planting.
- Avoid heavy nitrogen feeding.
- Copper sprays at leaf fall or early in the season can reduce spread; follow the label.
- Shelter trees from strong wind where possible.
Not sure it's bacterial spot?
Photograph one affected leaf and Plantulus will suggest the most likely problem, with a confidence score. It's free and needs no sign-up.
Check a leaf photoGeneral guidance only, not a diagnosis. Check product labels and local rules before using any treatment, and ask a horticultural specialist if a valuable plant is struggling. See the disclaimer.