Anthracnose

Anthracnose is a group of diseases found on many deciduous and evergreen trees and shrubs. Often called leaf, shoot, or twig blight, anthracnose results from infection by any of several different fungi. Infections on deciduous plants are more severe in areas where prolonged spring rains occur after new growth is produced. Anthracnose fungi need water to be disseminated and infect; they do not spread under dry conditions.
With careful management, some cultivars of susceptible landscape plants can be grown at a high level of aesthetic quality, despite the presence of anthracnose. For new plantings, choose varieties that are resistant to the anthracnose fungi. Plant them widely apart to maximize air circulation and increase sunlight, both of which facilitate faster drying of leaf surfaces when trees are fully grown. Once symptoms develop or become severe, anthracnose cannot be effectively controlled during the current season. Rake and dispose of fallen leaves and twigs during the growing season and during the fall. Prune during winter to increase air circulation in the canopy and remove the previous season’s infected twigs and branches.