Apple: Fruit russeting

Biology

Russeting is the appearance of corky, roughened, brownish or grayish areas on apple fruits. There are several possible causes for fruit russeting, including cool wet weather, frost damage, spray damage, powdery mildew infections, and some viral infections. The pattern of the russeting may indicate the cause. Russeting caused by wet weather may be associated with corky lenticels and tan-colored markings, typically raindrop-shaped and concentrated near the stem end of the fruit. Frost russeting often occurs in a band around the fruit. Spray damage russeting is usually concentrated near the bottom of the fruit, where spray collects. Russeting associated with powdery mildew may be tan to gray with a net-like appearance.

Management Options

Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.

Non-chemical Management

Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!

• Plant varieties that are less susceptible to russeting. Red apples generally have little russeting.
• Control powdery mildew.
• Use only virus-free wood for grafting.
• Check spray equipment for proper spray distribution and worn nozzles.

Chemical Management

IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.

• None recommended.