Red Spots on Leaves

Identification

• A number of plants from the rose family, India hawthorn, pear and loquat are susceptible to entomosporium leaf spot disease caused by Entomosporium maculatum. The symptoms of disease are more pronounced in cool, wet weather and during active plant growth.

Damage

• The disease starts with the appearance of very small, bright red, circular spots on both sides of young leaves. Over time, the spots enlarge and merge to create red patches. The spots on older foliage are brown to gray centered with dark red borders. Black, fungal fruiting bodies appear in the spots. Spots often spread to stems and petioles. There is extensive leaf drop in affected plants.

Control

• Inspect plants carefully at the time of buying and plant in areas of good circulation. Avoid keeping foliage wet and water early in the day. Keep plant area clear of fallen leaves and do not over-fertilize. You can also use recommended fungicides like chlorothalonil and propiconazole.