Azalea Gall Disease

Identification

• Leaves affected by azalea gall disease appear distorted, thickened and may be covered in white or pink spores. Other parts of the plant also may be affected by the disease and appear distorted.

Spread

• Spores are produced on the leaves during the spring and summer. The spores are dispersed through the air and splashed by rain drops onto healthy leaves where they can cause new infections.

Cycle

• The fungus overwinters in the azalea and remain dormant until spring. During the spring the affected leaves show typical symptoms of distortion and thickness.

Treatment

• The galls should be hand picked and destroyed before they turn white.

Prevention/Solution

• Gardeners should avoid overhead watering of azaleas, and prune only when dry.