Normally, the apple tree only sheds its leaves in autumn, sets buds and develops fresh foliage until spring. However, sometimes severe leaf loss can already be observed in the summer months, which can have various reasons.
Why does the apple tree shed its leaves?
The premature shedding of leaves can be a result ofprolonged dry phases. Another cause isFungal diseases, which are often favored by the weather. With appropriate measures you can effectively prevent or prevent the premature shedding of leaves.
Why does the apple tree lose its leaves when it is dry?
The drying out and shedding of the leaves is astress reaction of the tree,with which it reacts to the lack of water. First the leaves change color, eventually dry out and are shed. In these phases you can help the fruit tree as follows:
- Remove the growth from the tree disk.
- To keep water in the soil, mulch it with organic materials.
- Watere the root area every few days using the weak jet of the garden hose for about 30 to 45 minutes.
Which diseases cause premature leaf loss?
The apple tree also reacts to an infestation withscab fungus (Venturia inaequalis)orPhyllosticta by dropping leaves. The leaf damage is shown by spot-like brightening and necrosis. Since photosynthesis is greatly reduced in the affected leaves, the tree releases a plant hormone to cause them to be rejected.
You can prevent these fungal diseases through regular thinning cuts and spraying with silica-containing horsetail broth. It is also advisable to immediately remove all infected plant parts and dispose of them with household waste. Alternatively, you can cultivate scab-resistant apple varieties.
Which relatively new fungal disease causes leaf drop?
Mostly,Marssonina coronari,a relatively new fungal disease of the apple tree,appears after long periods of rain. The foliage develops diffuse, converging spots on the top. Later it turns yellow and is thrown off.
Since there is a fear that this fungus will become more widespread as a result of climate change, you should keep the crowns of your apple trees open. This allows the leaves to dry more quickly after a rainstorm. Fine doses of lime nitrogen have a preventive effect.
Tip
Iron deficiency can also lead to leaf drop
If the apple tree lacks iron, a chlorophyll deficiency occurs, which is noticeable through yellowing of the predominantly young foliage, necrosis and leaf drop. A lot of this trace element is contained in Bokashi fertilizer, which you can make yourself from plant waste from the kitchen. The advantage of the natural iron donor: It is non-toxic and provides the fruit tree with additional valuable nutrients.
