Will these spots kill my plant?

Usually not, but they can weaken it significantly if left untreated. Keep the plant clean and dry to help it recover.

Should I use a fungicide?

Yes, if the spots are spreading quickly. A copper fungicide is effective for most fungal issues on dewberries.

European dewberry: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Inspect the undersides of the leaves for orange dust.
Check if the spots are spreading to new growth.
Look for signs of high humidity or poor airflow.

Likely causes

Rust fungus
Most likely
How to tell: You will see bright orange or rusty brown pustules on the undersides of leaves. The leaves may eventually yellow and fall off.
What to do: Remove and destroy all infected leaves immediately to stop the spread. Apply a copper based fungicide spray every 7 to 10 days until the infection clears.
Leaf spot disease
Possible
How to tell: These appear as small dark brown or black spots with lighter centers. They often show up during periods of high humidity.
What to do: Prune away affected foliage to improve air circulation around the plant. Avoid overhead watering to keep the leaves dry.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your european dewberry

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 more than half the leaf surface or if the plant starts dropping leaves rapidly. A few spots are normal in damp weather.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant to keep foliage dry and prune branches to ensure good airflow.

European dewberry: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your european dewberry 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

Will these spots kill my plant?: Usually not, but they can weaken it significantly if left untreated. Keep the plant clean and dry to help it recover.
Should I use a fungicide?: Yes, if the spots are spreading quickly. A copper fungicide is effective for most fungal issues on dewberries.

Why does my European dewberry have spots on its leaves?

Check these first

Not sure what's wrong with your european dewberry?

Likely causes

Rust fungus

Leaf spot disease

Find out what's wrong with your european dewberry

When to worry

Stopping it coming back

European dewberry: spots? Check yours with a photo

Questions people ask

Guides to these causes

More problems with European dewberry