Weeping Willow Leaf Spot: Fall Sanitation and Spring Spray Program

Case

South-central TN: Multiple weeping willows (largest 20 ft, 4 yrs). Small dark spots → yellow → drop. Cool wet spring, below-normal summer temps, above-avg rain. Copper fungicide + fertilizer + raking done; persists.

Diagnosis: Fungal Leaf Spot(s)

• Weather perfect for fungal sporulation/spread.
• Late season: spraying won't cure existing spots.

Current Action: Sanitation Only

• Rake/destroy (burn/bury) ALL fallen leaves — reduces spring inoculum.
• Do not compost.

Next Spring: Preventative Spray Schedule

1. Start: Leaves unfurling.
2. Products: Copper (Hi-Yield, Ferti-lome) OR Mancozeb (Bonide, Southern Ag, Dragon).
3. Schedule: 3× at 2-week intervals.
4. Coverage: Thorough, both surfaces.

Prognosis

Leaf spots won't kill willows. Cause some growth loss via defoliation. Not a real health hazard. Consistent spring program = clean foliage.