Red Dogwood Leaf Browning in NE Alabama: Likely Anthracnose or Blight

Recently planted red dogwood in NE Alabama shows browning leaves. Fungus or disease? Prevention?

Probable Causes

• Dogwood anthracnose (fungal blight): leaf/twig blight, twig dieback, leaf browning.
• Discula destructiva (dogwood blight): highly susceptible.

Management

1. Cut back nearby shade trees to promote drying/airflow.
2. Apply fungicide per label (2–3 applications).
3. Warmer, drier sites with good air movement = less impact.

With help, tree may survive. Dogwoods can die from these diseases.