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Prunus looks unhealthy

carla.f.jonescarla.f.jones Posts: 3
in Problem solving
We pruned our prunus as normal in January/February time. It blossomed but now the leaves have changed and there are little spots/holes. The bark has also split, although there is also evidence that this has happened previously.  See photos. Can anyone identify the problem and suggest if there is anything we can do to help it?

Posts

  • yorkshireroseyorkshirerose Posts: 574
    Prunus are very susceptible to canker. Have you noticed any 'gummy' oozing on the trunk or branches? They also suffer from stress due to frost or prolonged draught, both of these climatical factors may cause the bark to split.
    As seen in the older split, the tree will most likely take care of itself.

    In comparison to other large trees, Prunus are reltively short-lived.
    A gardener's work is never at an end  - (John Evelyn 1620-1706)
  • Lizzie27Lizzie27 Posts: 12,494
    I'm afraid to say that prunus trees should never be pruned in the winter, however tempting to do so when you can see what you are doing. Pruning in winter can cause a fungus known as silver leaf disease to attack the tree, which eventually dies. You may just have been lucky in past years. The damage shown though is very probably due to the drought we had last year, which is only now becoming apparent - I've lost several plants so far.  I would give the tree a couple of gallons of water twice a week for a month or more (unless we get lots of rain) and see if it picks up. Sorry to be the bearer of bad news. 
    North East Somerset - Clay soil over limestone
  • carla.f.jonescarla.f.jones Posts: 3
    Thank you for your comments. I am now kicking myself for pruning in the winter. The garden centre lady seemed to think that it is peach leaf curl but I’m not convinced. She has suggested feeding the roots to help it fight it off and to prune in the summer. No sign of anything oozing. I have lost a couple of shrubs which I’m hoping is just to the frost. Thanks again
  • Lizzie27Lizzie27 Posts: 12,494
    We'll keep our fingers crossed it survives. It would be such a shame to lose it. Do let us know what happens. 
    North East Somerset - Clay soil over limestone
  • carla.f.jonescarla.f.jones Posts: 3
    The problem had become clear. Greenfly! 
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