Shot hole disease

[2] Almost all over-ground parts of the plants are affected including the fruits, buds and the stems, but the damage is most noticeable on the leaves.

As the disease progresses the damaged areas become slightly larger and then dry up and fall away, leaving BB-sized holes behind.

Significant infections can reduce the amount of photosynthesis that can occur, weakening the plant, and decreasing fruit production.

Asexual spores (conidia) are dispersed in spring when moisture levels increase or as a result of overhead watering.

It is estimated that 80% of the California almond crop may be infested with shot hole disease, resulting in a potential yield loss of 50-75%.

Cherry leaves with a mild shot hole disease infection
Peach tree leaves displaying various stages of the shot hole disease: brown spots on the leaf with conidium holders in the middle (center) that eventually fall off, leaving BB-sized holes behind (left)
Shot hole disease of apricot leaves