Peach Scab
(fungus - Cladosporium carpophilum): Peach scab, also known as "freckles,"
is found wherever peaches are grown. It is most apparent on mid-late season varieties.
Small spots develop on fruit and are normally concentrated around the stem or
shoulder of the fruit. Lesions formed on young twigs serve as a means of overwintering.
Primary infection in the spring comes from spores produced in twig cankers formed
the previous year. Fruit infection normally occurs after shuck split and 2-4 weeks
following. Once infection occurs, 40 to 70 days may elapse before symptoms are
visible. Control is by repeated applications of an approved fungicide
during the critical period beginning at shuck split.
