Kinnikinnick: Leaf gall
categories: Kinnikinnick Kinnikinnick Diseases Ornamentals Shrubs
revision date: 2022-12-03 12:00
Photo by: R.S. Byther
Biology
Leaf gall of kinnikinnick is caused by the same fungus which causes leaf and flower gall of azalea. Initially, infected plant parts show a thickening and then gradually become fleshy in appearance. Infected leaves and flowers thicken into greenish to pinkish galls. As the galls mature, they become covered with a dense white coating of fungal spores. Galls finally become brown and woody. Healthy plants can easily tolerate considerable amounts of galling without serious damage.
Management Options
Use Integrated Pest Management (IPM) for successful plant problem management.
Non-chemical Management
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!
- Pick and destroy thickened, fleshy leaves and flowers before the white fungal spores are present.
- Remove all old galls from plants prior to bloom and flushes of new growth.
- Space plants and prune to reduce humidity.
- Avoid overhead watering or limit it to times when the foliage can dry quickly.
- The variety ‘Massachusetts’ is reported to be resistant to leaf gall.
Chemical Management
IMPORTANT: Visit Home and Garden Fact Sheets for more information on using pesticides.
Make two applications, the first before budbreak in spring and the second 2 to 3 weeks later.
Approved Pesticides
Listed below are examples of pesticides that are legal in Washington. Always read and follow all label directions.