Insecticide For Dogwood Tree

Dogwood anthracnose is a problematic disease that all dogwood owners must take seriously. Generally, a tree infected with dogwood anthracnose will develop dark spots with a tar-like appearance on the leaves as well as distorted, wilted and curled foliage. These leaf spots may have a purple or tan color border around them. The branches, twigs and trunk of the dogwood may also develop swollen or sunken areas and cankers.

Unfortunately, chemical control of dogwood anthracnose can be difficult – but not impossible – and it is best to keep the fungus at bay before it has a chance to harm your plants. Before undertaking any anthracnose treatment, remove infected leaves, branches and limbs from the plant and place inside a garbage bag.

A synthetic, broad-spectrum fungicide, chlorothalonil treats and controls a wide array of fungus strains and diseases. However, according to the University of California, chlorothalonil will not get rid of problems such as dogwood anthracnose but it will help prevent it. This protectant fungicide should be applied before the fungus occurs by spraying the foliage with the liquid until well covered. Wait 7 to 14 days before applying a second application of chlorothalonil.

Copper-based sprays are dormant sprays used to treat various diseases on a wide array of trees and shrubs. Copper-based sprays are best used two weeks before the dogwood anthracnose generally appears or whenever a long stretch of wet weather is in the forecast and generally require mixing with water.

For specific fungicide to water ratio, refer to the instructions printed on the copper-based spray bottle. Alternatively, use the copper-based spray when you first notice the signs of dogwood anthracnose and repeat the application every 7 to 10 days and after each rain. Whether used as a preventive measure or treatment, always apply the copper-based spray to the foliage of the tree or shrub until the liquid is dripping off the leaves.

Used to prevent wood decay caused by fungus, propiconazole is a systemic foliar fungicide that helps to treat dogwood anthracnose, says the University of California. Propiconazole should be applied to the foliage of the infected plant at the first signs of the disease and reapplied every 14 to 28 days as needed. It is vital that you apply the fungicide liberally to the foliage to ensure the leaves are completely covered.

Since each brand of fungicide containing propiconazole has its own specific usage instructions, it is best to follow the manufactures directions to increase its effectiveness and lower the possibility of damage to the plant.

Prevention with proper maintenance and care is your best defense against fungus and diseases such as the dogwood anthracnose. In the winter months when the air begins to chill, prune the shrub or tree to allow for better air circulation through the foliage. In addition, keep the area underneath the tree or shrub clean by regularly removing and disposing of plant matter that has fallen to the ground. Furthermore, keep the shrub and tree healthy by applying a complete, balanced fertilizer designed for use on that specific species of plant.