Can I eat fruit with spots on it?

Usually, yes. Just peel the skin or cut around the affected area if the damage is only on the surface.

Will these spots kill my tree?

Rarely. Most fungal spots are cosmetic, but they can weaken the tree if left untreated for several seasons.

Why are there spots on my pear tree leaves? Causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of leaves for fungal growth.
Clear away all fallen leaves from the base of the tree.
Check if the tree canopy is too dense for air to move through.

Likely causes

Pear Scab
Most likely
How to tell: You will see olive green or brown velvety spots on leaves and fruit. It often happens during cool, wet springs.
What to do: Remove and destroy all fallen leaves and infected fruit to stop spores from spreading. Apply a copper fungicide early in the spring before buds break to protect new growth.
Leaf Spot
Possible
How to tell: Small, dark, circular spots appear on the leaves, sometimes with a purple border. The center of the spot may eventually fall out.
What to do: Prune branches to improve air circulation through the canopy. Keep the area under the tree clean of debris to reduce fungal buildup.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your pear tree

The list above covers the usual causes. Pocket Botanist looks at a photo of your actual plant and tells you the likely cause, how serious it is, and what to try first. Identification and a health check are free.

When to worry

Worry if the spots cover most of the foliage or if the fruit becomes deformed. A few spots are normal in humid climates.

Stopping it coming back

Prune your tree annually to keep the center open and always water at the base rather than overhead.

Pear tree: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your pear tree and Pocket Botanist tells you which cause is most likely, how serious it is, and what to try first. A few checks a day are free. Save the plant and you get care reminders timed for it.

Get the app · Or check it from a photo now, free

Questions people ask

Can I eat fruit with spots on it?: Usually, yes. Just peel the skin or cut around the affected area if the damage is only on the surface.
Will these spots kill my tree?: Rarely. Most fungal spots are cosmetic, but they can weaken the tree if left untreated for several seasons.

Guides to these causes

Leaf Spot

Why are there spots on my pear tree leaves?