Is willow blight contagious to other plants?

It is specific to willows, but it can easily spread to other willow trees in your garden.

Do I need to use a fungicide?

Pruning is usually enough for minor cases. If the infection is severe, a copper based fungicide can help protect the remaining healthy growth.

Willow: spots, causes and fixes

Check these first

Examine the leaves for black or dark brown spots.
Check if the twigs are turning black or dying back.
Ensure the plant is not crowded by other foliage.

Likely causes

Willow Blight
Most likely
How to tell: Small black spots appear on the leaves and eventually spread to the twigs causing dieback.
What to do: Prune away all infected branches and leaves immediately. Dispose of the clippings in the trash, not your compost pile, to stop the spread.
Poor Air Circulation
Possible
How to tell: The leaves stay wet for a long time after watering or rain.
What to do: Move the plant to a spot with better airflow. Avoid overhead watering to keep the leaves dry.

Leaf spots on other plants

Find out what's wrong with your willow

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

Willow blight can kill a young tree if left untreated. If you see the infection spreading to the main stems, take action immediately.

Stopping it coming back

Water at the base of the plant rather than over the leaves. Give the tree plenty of space for air to move through the branches.

Willow: spots? Check yours with a photo

Every plant is a little different. Take a photo of your willow 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

Is willow blight contagious to other plants?: It is specific to willows, but it can easily spread to other willow trees in your garden.
Do I need to use a fungicide?: Pruning is usually enough for minor cases. If the infection is severe, a copper based fungicide can help protect the remaining healthy growth.

Guides to these causes

Willow Blight

What are these black spots on my willow leaves?