Monilinia Laxa

Monilinia laxa is a fungal pathogen closely related to M. fructigena but with a more specific preference for stone fruits including peaches, cherries, plums, and apricots. The pathogen causes brown rot of blossoms, twigs, and fruit, with particular severity on developing immature fruit. Infected blossoms wither and die, creating cankers on twigs that persist through winter and produce spores during the next growing season. The disease thrives in wet, cool conditions common during spring bloom periods. Fruit infection occurs through wounds or direct contact with infected fruit and spores.