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Pear tree trouble


Question
I have a Bradford Pear tree that is having trouble with it's leaves.  They have turned a much lighter color of green and have developed lots of brown spots on both sides of the leaves.  It does not appear to be insects and it is possible the spots are just on the one side of the leaves but that you can see them on the opposite side.  What can I do???

Answer
If you can upload an image, that would be so useful in helping solve the problem.  There are a few problems that could cause this type of problem.  The first is Entomosporium leaf spot.  It is usually a problem in the spring during humid periods, but then is minor during the hot summer.  You can rake up fallen leaves in the summer and fall and destroy them.  If it is severe, fungicides may be needed.  There are some images of Entomosporium at the following web address: http://www.ugaurbanag.com/content/entomosporium-leaf-spot

The problem could also be due to a rust.  Rust fungi such as cedar-quince rust may also affect Brandford pears.  They make interesting signs on the fruit and little organge structures can be observed.  Leaves can also have spots and turn brown.  There are some images of the symptoms on fruit at this web address: http://www.walterreeves.com/gardening-q-and-a/pear-quince-rust/

I don't know if these problems occur in your area or if the weather would be too hot and dry.  It may be a nutritional problem.  If you have not recently had a soil test, you may want to confirm that your pH and nutrient levels are proper for this tree.  

Otherwise, I might suggest that you contact your local county extension office.  They will be most familiar with the problems in your area and can assist you.  They will look at your sample and help you determine the cause of the problem.  You can find their contact information at this web site: http://aces.nmsu.edu/county/

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