How To Identify & Treat Gall On Azaleas?

How To Identify & Treat Gall On Azaleas

Arbor-Nomics Turf

Overview

Azaleas are very popular among homeowners and landscape designers due to their beautiful blooms. They are, however, susceptible to problems, particularly a condition known as "leaf gall." Arbor-Nomics provides premium lawn care Atlanta services to property owners in and around Atlanta, GA. Our team enjoys assisting our local customers in improving the health and vitality of their grass, as well as the health and vitality of their ornamental trees and shrubs.

What Is Leaf Gall

Leaf gall is a condition caused by a fungus known scientifically as Exobasidium vaccinii. It is easily carried by the wind and will frequently spend the winter on Azalea bark or flower buds. The same fungus has been observed attacking blueberry bushes, rhododendrons, and camellias. It is most common in the spring, following prolonged periods of rain and high moisture. Leaf gall appears as fleshy growths that resemble large green balls on leaves & twigs.

How Does Gall Effect Azaleas

The presence of leaf gall on wellestablished Azaleas is usually not a threat, though their appearance may be unsightly and overpower the beauty of your landscape designs. It may be more damaging to new plantings, which will require closer monitoring until they have matured.

How To Prevent Leaf Gall

One of the best ways to avoid leaf gall is to keep your Azalea plants properly spaced and pruned each year. If leaf gall has already appeared on your Azaleas, fungicide treatments are the most effective way to remove existing spores and prevent further development. As the fungus that causes the condition is common and spreads by wind, leaf gall can reoccur year after year. So, annual treatments may be required to keep it at a minimum in the long run.

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