Peach Leaf Curl: Fungal Cause and Organic Remedy

Peach Leaf Curl: Fungal Cause and Organic Remedy

Yellowing leaves and peaches shriveling into "prunes" on two trees indicate peach leaf curl (Taphrina deformans), a fungal disease that infects buds in cool, wet spring weather. Infected leaves curl, redden, and drop; fruit becomes distorted and falls early.

Organic Treatment

Atomic Grow, applied as a foliar spray during dormancy and at bud swell, can suppress the fungus and strengthen tree immunity. It is organic and safe for edible crops.

Conventional Option

• Apply copper fungicide or chlorothalonil in late fall after leaf drop and again in late winter before bud swell.
• Thin fruit to reduce load on weakened tree.
• Fertilize based on soil test to support recovery.

Resistant varieties are the best long-term solution for new plantings.