Horticulturalist Duncan Cocking, who runs Kyneton-based Leaf, Root & Fruit, discusses different approaches to curly leaf in peaches and nectarines.
If you are concerned about curly leaf on your peach and nectarine trees, then now is the time to spray. Copper-based anti-fungal sprays need to be applied to the tree before it breaks dormancy.
However, I never spray for curly leaf. I find that environmental conditions have the biggest influence on whether the trees suffer (and to what degree). I’m also convinced that the disease doesn’t have a huge influence on the overall health or productivity of the tree.
Variety selection is critical when it comes to curly leaf in peaches and nectarines. The dry spring last year meant that curly leaf didn’t proliferate. It provided an opportunity to compare how susceptible different varieties were to the disease.
Check out my blog post for more information about this disease, including treatment options, which varieties are most susceptible, and which are least likely to be affected by curly leaf.
Happy gardening!
Duncan
🍑 For more gardening tips see my latest planting guide and garden update.