crabapple tree problem

Question

Our crabapple tree leaves started yellowing, developing dark spots, then browning and dropping off in July. They didn’t all go at once but have been steadily browning and dropping since then. I’d like to find out the cause and possible remedies.

I’m sorry I don’t know the specific type of crabapple, as it was already a mature tree when we bought the house. The fruit is small and dark red. The blossoms are pink. We experienced the problem last year as well but it wasn’t as bad as this year.

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Answer 1

This sounds like apple scab, but the symptoms could also match several other diseases. Check this article to see if any of the photos and descriptions match:

https://extension.psu.edu/pests/plant-diseases/all-fact-sheets/crabapple-diseases

These articles provide advice about apple scab:

https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/edible/fruits/apples/treating-apple-scab-fungus.htm

http://web.extension.illinois.edu/cfiv/homeowners/010331.html