Silver leaf
DISEASE
When it's active · UK
JFMAMJJASOND
When it's active · Northern Italy
JFMAMJJASOND
When it's active · Central Italy
JFMAMJJASOND
When it's active · Southern Italy and islands
JFMAMJJASOND
How to recognise it
A silvery sheen developing across leaves, followed by dieback of the affected branch; cutting through affected wood often shows a dark stain in the centre.
Life cycle and conditions
A fungal disease entering through pruning wounds, especially in autumn and winter, mainly associated with Prunus (ornamental and fruiting cherries, plums).
Prevention
Prune susceptible trees in summer, when the disease is least active, rather than autumn or winter; disinfect tools between cuts.
How to treat it
🌿 ORGANIC · RECOMMENDED
Cut out and dispose of affected branches well back into healthy wood, ideally during summer — timing the cut correctly is the main defence, with no chemical equivalent.
🧪 CHEMICAL · IF YOU CHOOSE
No chemical treatment applies — summer pruning timing and prompt removal of affected wood is the complete management approach.
PLANTS MOST AFFECTED
Prunus (not yet a genus template — candidate for future tree/fruit expansion)