Avocado foliage holes, spotting and trunk spotting

Question

I have an approximately 5-year old Lamb Hass Avocado planted in the ground (zone 10 Southern California, approximately 1 mile from the ocean). It hasn’t borne fruit yet, but I am optimistic for next season, as a couple of flowers bloomed earlier this year.

The tree has put on a lot of foliage over the past few weeks and generally appears to be in great health, but there are two issues I wanted to get some input on:

1) I am noticing some black spotting/blotching on the trunk. Guessing this may be sunburn, but would appreciate any input, in case this is a disease.

2) I have noticed some holes in some of the leaves, as well as brown spots on the underside of some leaves. This appears to be happening mostly on the new growth leaves rather than the more mature leaves. I have checked the tree for caterpillars and other leaf-eaters, but nothing is visible to the naked eye. I have sprayed with BT as a precaution. Any ideas what could be causing this? It appears to be getting worse each day.

Many thanks!

Answer 1

Yes, unfortunately, this appears to be shothole fungus. There are only preventative methods of control, but there are ways to control the symptoms once the tree has been infected. Since there is no cure, this will be a battle until the tree dies from the disease. You can still get the tree to live a, somewhat, healthy life.

This article will help: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/special/organic

Answer 2

Thanks, BushDoctor, I appreciate the help. Well, that’s a shame. I’m inclined to take out the tree to avoid any of my neighboring fruit trees becoming affected and then try again with a new tree.