Cherry tree infected with cytospora canker - Ask Extension
I have a cherry tree next to my backyard patio in Minneapolis that is diseased. I took a sample to the University of Minnesota Plant Disease Clinic an...
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Cherry tree infected with cytospora canker #944392
Asked September 06, 2026, 5:52 PM EDT
I have a cherry tree next to my backyard patio in Minneapolis that is diseased. I took a sample to the University of Minnesota Plant Disease Clinic and they confirmed its cytospora canker. Do you think it's worth me trying to save the tree by pruning the dead branches in November, or is this disease ultimately fatal and I'm better off replacing the tree? I pruned it last November in hopes of it improving, but it got worse this year. If I replace it, is there a medium tree that you'd recommend for a patio area that isn't as prone to diseases?
Hennepin County Minnesota
Expert Response
Based on these web pages, saving the tree may be possible.
https://extension.psu.edu/cytospora-canker-of-stone-fruits-in-the-home-fruit-planting
https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/cytospora-canker-2/
Regarding a replacement tree, see this web app. The most important characteristic for a new tree is plenty of air circulation and distance from other trees.
https://plantsearch.extension.umn.edu/home/list?page=list
Good luck
https://extension.psu.edu/cytospora-canker-of-stone-fruits-in-the-home-fruit-planting
https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/articles/cytospora-canker-2/
Regarding a replacement tree, see this web app. The most important characteristic for a new tree is plenty of air circulation and distance from other trees.
https://plantsearch.extension.umn.edu/home/list?page=list
Good luck
