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White willow > Leaf gall
What Causes Leaf Gall in White willow?
White willow, also known as Water willow, Cricket-bat willow, Sallow tree, Swallow Tail Willow
Leaf gall is a plant disease that affects the White willow, causing abnormal growth or swelling in leaf tissue. The disease is troublesome but rarely lethal, significantly affecting the plant's aesthetics and potentially hindering photosynthesis.

Symptom Analysis

The main symptom of Leaf gall on the White willow is the development of abnormal leaf outgrowths or 'galls.' These galls are irregularly shaped, often round, and discolored, detracting from the plant's natural appearance.
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What Causes Leaf gall Disease on White willow?

Parasitic organism
The disease is primarily caused by a specific type of wasp, Pontania proxima, which lays eggs on the leaves, causing the gall formation.
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How to Treat Leaf gall Disease on White willow?

Non pesticide
Prune infected branches: Pruning the infected branches can help control the spread of the disease within the tree.

Disposal: Dispose of the pruned galls in sealed bags to prevent the wasps from returning or spreading.
Pesticide
Insecticide application: Applications of horticultural oils or insecticide soaps can help reduce the infestation.

How to Prevent Leaf gall on White willow?

Regular inspection
Inspect the White willow regularly for signs of gall to detect infestation early.
Healthier planting practices
By practicing proper watering and fertilization, you can keep the White willow healthy and more resilient to the disease.
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When is Leaf gall Most Active Period on White willow?

Leaf gall is most active during spring when the wasp eggs hatch. The warmer climate boosts the wasp's metabolic rate, spurring it to lay eggs at a faster pace.

Infectivity

The disease can spread rapidly to other parts of the plant, especially if the infection is not addressed quickly.

Lethality

While the disease is unsightly, it rarely results in the death of the White willow. However, severe infestations may weaken the tree.

FAQs on White Willow

What is Leaf gall?
Leaf gall is a plant disease caused by a parasitic wasp which makes the leaves of the White willow to develop abnormal growths or 'galls.'
How does Leaf gall affect the White willow?
Leaf gall makes the White willow's leaves form abnormal outgrowths which are irregular, round, and discolored. This hinders photosynthesis and affects the plant's aesthetics.
Is Leaf gall lethal to the White willow?
Leaf gall rarely results in the death of the White willow, although severe infestations may weaken the tree making it susceptible to other diseases.
Can Leaf gall spread to other plants?
Leaf gall is highly infectious and can spread to other parts of the tree if not addressed quickly.
How can I prevent Leaf gall on White willow?
Regular inspection and healthier planting practices such as proper watering and fertilization prevent Leaf gall on White willow.
What measures can I take if my White willow is affected by Leaf gall?
Prune the infected branches, dispose of the pruned galls properly, and apply suitable insecticide to reduce the infestation.
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