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  • Black spots and cracking in my pomegranates

    Created by Mary Junek on June 22, 2016 at 3:58 pm

    Black spots and cracking in my pomegranates for the last 2 years. Fruit is lost. We’ve had unusually wet spring seasons here in Houston, TX. What organic path do you suggest?

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  • June 24, 2016 at 1:05 pm #202440

    Eric Vinje
    Keymaster

    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.

    https://www.planetnatural.com/pest-problem-solver/plant-disease/bacterial-leaf-spot/

    Best of luck!

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