Q.Plum Tree Disease
My plum tree has developed blackened leaves, with leaves and fruit dying off.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Neem oil is also available in the UK. Some people may know it by Genius oil, which contains the neem. You should be able to do a search on Google for your area to locate retailers.
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Well, this one has me stumped. I still believe either pests or a fungus of some kind may be attacking the tree. Using both a pesticide and fungicide (like neem oil) should alleviate this. Also, make sure that the tree is getting plenty of water. You may also want to have the soil tested just in case it's something in the soil (or lacking).
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
Black leaves are normally the result of insects, fungus or bacterial issues. Have you noticed any oozing? It could be fire blight. This article will help determine if this is affecting your tree: https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/fire-blight-remedies-and-symptoms.htm
Certified GKH Gardening Expert
If the blackened leaves are soot-like, then it is sooty mold. This happens when the plant gets a pest infestation. I would recommend using neem oil, as this will get rid of the sooty mold fungus and kill the pests. Here is some articles that will help you:
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/disease/how-to-get-rid-of-sooty-mold.htm
https://www.gardeningknowhow.com/plant-problems/pests/pesticides/neem-oil-uses.htm
Ok will do thankyou
Hi Again
Thank you for all your advice. I have never heard of neem oil
(do you realise I live in the UK)
Thank you once again
Hi
Thank you but there is no oozing at all.
Leaves just seem to go black, dry then drop off.
Hi
Thank your however, the leaves are not soot-like,
they are just turning blackish and dropping off,