Apple tree with brown leaves and black bark

Question

I have an apple tree which is at least fifteen years old and produces fruit most years. This year it has developed brown leaves on the lower branches and brown/black places on the bark near the ground. The fruit appears to be developing normally.

I'm in Ontario Canada, which does not allow chemical pesticides, but I spray it with sulphur and insecticidal soap at least a few times in Spring.

What is likely to be the problem and what can I do about it?

In your first picture I see a fruit with a dark area. What colour is it, brown or black? — Alina, Jul 10 '17 at 21:05

score 1 · Answer 1 · answered Jul 15 '17 at 17:46

1

These symptoms match the ones of Venturia inequalis. Use a systemic fungicide against it.

answered Jul 15 '17 at 17:46

Alina

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Any suggestions for what to do in a place where chemical fungicides are banned? – DJClayworth Jul 16 '17 at 01:16
I have read that potassium bicarbonate is used in organic farming to prevent infection, but I don't know if it is effective as a cure. – Alina Jul 16 '17 at 04:12

Apple tree with brown leaves and black bark

1 Answers1