Cedar Apple Rust

Our beautiful Ohio spring is here and so is the wet weather that comes with it.  When this happens, our lawns and landscapes can see any number of issues arise.  For example, that crazy looking orange alien that may be living in your tree is actually the reproductive organ of the dreaded rust fungus that has erupted from a gall that was caused by the fungal infection of a juniper/cedar tree.

Now, the interesting thing here is that the spores released from this organ do not infect other junipers. Instead, they infect apple trees and other members of the rose family. The rust then hops from one plant to the other each year.

The rust infection on an apple tree is less obvious, but can cause defoliation and can affect the apples on the tree.

If you see these, the recommended control methods are to avoid planting apple trees and junipers within 2 miles of each other (which is not a really feasible option in most cases), growing resistant strains of apple/crabapple (this would be ok if you are planting new trees, but existing trees could still be susceptible), and following a regular fungicide prevention program.

Our Tree & Shrub Program for our Cincinnati, Dayton, and Columbus customers includes exactly that last method. If you have seen these or are concerned about prevention, give us a call and we’ll be happy to discuss those services with you.

For additional information regarding Cedar Apple Rust, please visit https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/plpath-fru-02