Problems With Damson Tree

[hc4361]

My damson tree is still young but the leaves are shrivelling and turning black. My victoria plum tree is the same

http://i67.tinypic.com/2rzz86q.jpg

I need to know what is causing the problem and any treatment that is available.

Many thanks as always

[Chipchopper]

Could'nt see any pic of it but it sounds like 'peach leaf curl'

[hc4361]

http://tinypic.com/r/2rzz86q/9



I never know which link to use for the photo so I hope one of these works! There is no sign of aphids or any stickiness on the leaves

[woofgang]

It sounds like the bacterial thing that stone fruit trees get. Its called fireblight....some places you will see it said only to affect apple and pear but the stone fruit trees do get it too. No cure, you can cut off the affected parts and dispose of them carefully (not in the compost heap) and disinfect whatever you use to cut with. A copper sulphate spray used in autum is said to help to prevent the bacteria overwintering in the bark.

[hc4361]

Thanks, woofgang, I'll certainly look in that possibility.

[Old_Geezer]

Looks similar to one of the issues my woman has with the apple trees at her late parents' place.

(I must get around to asking about the masses of white furry fungus/mould/whatever they're also host to, too.)

[ladybirder]

hc just to let you know, and perhaps chipchopper, that by scrolling down on your first link and clicking on "zoom" on the L/H side I can see the pic in your OP. I have to do that on all tiny pic photos posted.
Sorry about your tree. I have a plum tree but spray it twice a year and it's OK so far.

[woofgang]

OG wooly aphid https://www.rhs.org.uk/advice/profile?pid=724

[tamborine]

happens with growing temp/ambience changes; indoors to outdoors. Damaged & dead growth will fall & new healthy growth will replace it, so dont cut.

[Old_Geezer]

That looks a distinct possibility Wolfie: next time I'm there I'll try bug control rather than disease sprays. Thanks.

[woofgang]

bacteria or not, cutting off the dead parts won't hurt and if it is bacterial it will limit spread.