Citrus Diseases

Citrus Canker
Citrus canker is a highly contagious bacterial infection of citrus trees causing yellow halo-like lesions or scabs on the fruit, leaves and twigs of citrus trees. Severe infections can cause leaf loss, blemished fruit, fruit drop and die back. The canker bacteria spreads easily and quickly on air currents, insects, birds and on humans by means of clothing and infected implements.  Unfortunately, while there are a variety of sprays designed to protect against infection, already infected trees are generally destroyed quickly to slow down the spread of the bacteria. If you believe that one or more of your citruses is infected, contact your local authorities immediately.

Melanose
Melanose is a fungal infection of young citrus fruit, primarily but not exclusively grapefruit. The scabbed fruit rind does not affect fruit quality but it is unsightly. The disease is generally more severe in older trees over 10 years of age. As the fungus propagates in dead wood, prompt pruning is an effective way of combatting this disease.

Greasy Spot
Greasy spot is another fungus disease of citruses. Tell-tale signs include yellowish-brownish spots on leaves. As the disease develops, the spots develop into oily looking blisters. Greasy spot can cause significant leaf loss, particularly during winter and can also infest citrus, particularly grapefruit, rind. Sprays are available to combat this fungus. If you suspect an infection on your property, contact your local tree care specialist for advice.

Sooty Mold
Sooty mold is a fungus which causes the blackening of the leaves of citrus trees. As the mold forms due to the secretions of insects such as whiteflies, aphids and mealybugs, insect control is the most effective way to prevent the incidence of this disease.

Insect Pests

Citrus Bud Mite
The citrus bud mite generally attacks lemons, particularly in coastal areas. It is a small elongated insect with four legs near the mouth and a tapered posterior. As the incidence of this insect peaks in summer, summer and fall lemon blooms are most at risk. The bud mite is difficult to detect but large infestations may be visible by closely examining fruit buttons. Sprays are available to deal with the bud mite. Contact your local tree care specialist for details. As with all pesticides, follow directions carefully.

Citrus Red Mites
Like most mites, the citrus red mite is an extremely tiny pest, only 1/50th of an inch long and red or purple in color. These mites infest leaves and fruit. Intense infestations during hot, dry weather can cause leaf drop. 

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