Freckle

Freckle (or scab) is a fungal disease caused by Venturia carpophilum. This disease affects stone fruit and is found in all growing regions, especially in warm, wet areas during the growing season.

Disease identification

Freckle infection on the fruit will appear as greenish–brown to black spots arising at the stem end, which can combine to form a greenish, velvety blotched area if the infection is severe. Symptoms on the leaves first appear as pale, green areas, which go dark brown as the disease progresses.

Damage

Damage from freckle can affect fruit growth and increase the incidence of cracks in the fruit, making it unmarketable. With severe infection, leaves can fall prematurely, reducing photosynthetic capacity and general tree decline.

Monitoring

Monitor weather conditions and take a preventative approach to controlling infection. Freckle is favoured by temperatures between 18 °C and 24 °C after rain.

Management

Cultural and physical: ensure there is adequate airflow throughout the canopy to increase the rate of drying after rain. Avoid planting in low-lying areas. Remove and destroy infected fruit.

Biological: there are no biological controls for freckle.

Chemical: spray programs for other key stone fruit diseases are likely to control freckle. However, there are fungicides registered to control freckle if a specific treatment is required. Check the APVMA PubCRIS database for registered controls (https://portal.apvma.gov.au/pubcris).