Apple Scab query

quietjon1 · May 2020

Hi, we have an apple tree that was planted three years ago when we moved. The tree has always appeared quite lacklustre and I have now noticed that it is quite badly affected by apple scab. We have a number of other trees in the garden including a quince, bramley, fig, pear, plum and cherry. I have read advice saying the best thing is to choose a disease resistant variety but obviously it is a bit late for that. I know that people recommend sweeping and burning the leaves when they fall but was wondering if it would be better off to just cut my losses and replace it with a disease resistant variety? I don't want to risk the other trees also becoming infected. Any advice gratefully received. Jon

Fairygirl · May 2020

Hi @quietjon1 - I had the same problem. I binned mine and replaced with Hydrangeas last year. Apart from the first and second year, they just got scab continually, and it was quite frustrating.
The ones I bought should have been Bramleys, and they weren't, but were clearly a susceptible variety. It was a shame, but nothing you can do from what I can gather.

quietjon1 · May 2020

Thanks, it is a shame but I'd rather get rid of it now than spend the next few years trying to resolve the issue. Also I really wouldn't want my other fruit trees to get it.

Dinnerplatedahlias🌸 · May 2020

We moved into a new home 2 years ago with an apple tree (unknown variety) which I discovered last summer is affected by scab. I’ve tried this year to very thoroughly sweep fallen leaves and I’ve also sprayed it with a fungus fighter which I’m hoping will offer some protection. I’ll report back once it starts fruiting if I’ve been successful. If not I’ll need to consider replanting a disease resistant variety.

Apple Scab query

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