Pocket BotanistCheck these first
- Inspect the fruit for fuzzy gray or brown mold.
- Look for small holes in the leaves.
- Check if the blossoms turned brown and shriveled.
Likely causes
Brown Rot
Most likelyHow to tell: You will see blossoms wilting and turning brown, followed by fruit decaying while still on the tree.
What to do: Remove and destroy all infected fruit and blossoms immediately. Apply a copper based fungicide during the dormant season or early spring to prevent spores from spreading.
Shot Hole Disease
PossibleHow to tell: Small red spots appear on leaves that eventually fall out, leaving behind a hole that looks like a bullet hole.
What to do: Prune away infected branches to improve airflow through the canopy. Keep the area under the tree clean of fallen leaves to reduce fungal buildup.
When to worry
If the spots are spreading rapidly to the fruit, you risk losing your entire harvest. A few spots on older leaves late in the season are usually harmless.
Stopping it coming back
Prune your tree annually to keep the center open for sunlight and air circulation. Always rake up and dispose of fallen leaves and fruit in the autumn.
Not sure which one it is? Photograph your cherry tree.
This page lists the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at your actual leaf and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.
Questions people ask
- Can I eat cherries that have spots?
- If the spot is just on the skin and the fruit is firm, you can cut it away. If the fruit is soft or has mold, it is best to discard it.
- Will these spots kill my tree?
- Most fungal spots are cosmetic or affect the fruit, but severe cases of brown rot can weaken the tree over time. Proper pruning usually keeps the tree healthy.
More problems with Cherry tree
This article was generated with AI from the plant’s care profile and is general information, not horticultural advice. Read about how we build these guides.