Shade Trees: Branches/Twigs

Black knot, caused by the fungus Apiosporina morbosa, forms galls on plants in the genus Prunus, such as plum, cherry, flowering almond, apricot, and blackthorn.  The first symptoms appear in the fall as swellings on twigs. The swellings enlarge the next season, gradually encircle the stem, and form black galls.  The surface typically splits or cracks, giving a roughened or crusty appearance.  The stem beyond the gall typically dies back and fails to leaf out.

Management: Chemical controls are not very effective.  Prune out infected stems and branches at least 4 inches below the galls and remove the clippings from the landscape before April 1.  Infected wild plum and black cherry are often a source of new infections.

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Black knot on wild cherry

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