Anthracnose is particularly severe when wet weather coincides with bud break and leaf enlargement. It is thought that Discula was inadvertently introduced into the U.S. on infected, symptomless trees in the 1970's and that migrating song bird, having eaten Discula -infected dogwood fruits, spread the fungus throughout the natural range of Cornus florida . That fungus was also inadvertently introduced to the U. S., probably in the 1940's. However, Elsinoe does not cause a branch dieback. Secondary fungi and dogwood borers are in the trees.
Water sprouts develop at the base of the tree.
Tree growth slows and tree dies. Promote tree vigor. During dry summer and autumn weather, water once every 7-10 days to supply one inch of water. Fertilize moderately in the spring. Do not apply excessive nitrogen.