Reply To: Black spots and cracking in my pomegranates

[E. Vinje]

Hi Mary –

It sounds to me like your pomegranate problems are a result of the wet springs you’ve been having. Fruit splitting and cracking are symptoms of fungal disease, and in some cases uneven watering. Leaf spots are also a symptom of disease fungi and are most active when there is plenty of moisture and warm temperatures.

A heavy layer of organic mulch (straw, bark, grass) around the base of the tree/ shrub can help conserve soil moisture, suppress weeds, prevent extreme temperature fluctuations and reduce water evaporation. Use at least 3 inches for best results, and water as evenly as possible.

To nip disease problems in the proverbial bud consider the following steps:
• Keep the ground under your tree clean and rake up any fallen fruit.
• Prune or stake plants to improve air circulation. Make sure to disinfect your pruning shears after each cut.
• Apply organic fungicides weekly at first sign of disease to prevent its spread.

I’ve included a link to our leaf spot page that should help.

Leaf Spot

Best of luck!