Apricot: Shothole (Coryneum blight)
categories: Apricot Apricot Diseases Tree Fruits
last review date: 2026-02-10 03:39
Photo by: R.S. Byther
Biology
Shothole is a fungal disease which attacks leaves, buds, blossoms, fruits, and twigs. Twig cankers are rare on apricot.
On apricot, the fungus often infects and kills buds, which may be covered with a shiny, gummy material. Lesions on leaves and fruit are initially small purplish areas which expand into brown spots with light centers. The lesions are seldom larger than 1⁄4″ in diameter.
The infected spots on leaves often die and drop out in warm weather, giving leaves a “shothole” appearance. The fungus probably overwinters on the bark and in infected buds. Spores are easily spread by water.
Management Options
See "Using Integrated Pest Management (IPM) in the Landscape" for successful problem management techniques.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Prune and destroy dead buds and cankered twigs if present.
- Rake and destroy infected leaves.
- Avoid overhead watering.
- Space plantings and prune to provide good air circulation.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
- Apply copper fungicides or chlorothalonil products at leaf drop in late fall before heavy rains.
- Apply IMMUNOX or chlorothalonil products in spring when petals fall.
- NOTE: Bonide Fung-onil is for spring use only.
- Homeowners should not make foliar applications to trees over 10 ft tall.
- Consult a commercial pesticide applicator for treatment of trees and shrubs over 10 ft. tall.
Approved Pesticides
Examples of pesticides that are legal for home use in Washington State are listed below.
The list may not include all products registered for this use.
Additional Images
Photo by: R.S. Byther
Photo by: R.S. Byther
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Evidence of noncompliance may be reported through your local Extension office.