Kwanzan Cherry Tree Leaf Problems

Identification

• Kwanzan cherry is susceptible to aphids and spider mites. Aphids are very small, pear-shaped pests with long mouths and soft bodies. These pests can often be found in large numbers on foliage undersides. Spider mites are not noticeable to the naked eye and belong to the spider family. Spider mites' presence is usually established only after damage becomes evident.

Damage

• Aphids feed on plant sap or juice from tender plant areas, causing discolored foliage, wilting and shoot dieback. As they feed, the pests produce a sticky, honeydew-like substance that leads to sooty mold fungus on infested areas. Spider mite feeding leads to flecked and discolored foliage. Damage eventually causes leaf drop and poor plant health.

Control

• Use natural predators like minute pirate bugs, big eyed bugs and predatory thrips to control spider mites. Recommended insecticides include acephate, bifenthrin and spiromesifan. You can control aphids with natural predators like lacewing, syrphid fly and parasitic wasps, or with insecticides like malathion and permethrin.