Some trees have genetic resistance to dogwood anthracnose. Left unchecked, the Discula fungus and the disease it causes will, under the right conditions, continue to develop in the tree. Rake up and destroy fallen leaves in autumn. If the tree is valuable enough, fungicide sprays may be warranted. Fungicides should be applied beginning at bud break in the spring and continued biweekly until hot, dry summer weather.
Thorough coverage is essential.
Without proper equipment, protection from anthracnose with fungicides will not be effective. It is likely that dogwood anthracnose will continue to be a serious problem in Kentucky. During certain parts of the growing season our weather favors disease development. Ultimately, the severity of dogwood anthracnose in Kentucky will depend on the weather and on how well we maintain our dogwoods in the landscape. We should be advising wise selection of dogwood trees and planting sites, and to be prepared to maintain them well.