What Causes Cherry Tree Leaves to Shrivel?

Cherry trees can better withstand disease and other problems when given proper care.


Sweet cherry trees are the variety most often grown in backyards and also the type of cherries generally sold at the grocery store. There are also tart cherries that can grow in the home orchard, and these are mainly used for baking. Both varieties of cherry trees require proper care to help them withstand cultural conditions or diseases that cause shriveling foliage.


All growing things need water, including cherry trees. When given ample water, cherry trees thrive and produce better fruit. Over- and under-irrigating cherry trees can have adverse effects. Inadequate irrigation can affect leaves and fruit, causing them to shrivel, curl and sunburn. Too much water combined with poorly draining soil can lead to tree death. Cherry trees generally do not need to be watered from fall after leaves drop until new growth begins.

Genetic Abnormalities

Two common genetic abnormalities of cherry trees include deep suture and cherry crinkle. Deep suture causes leaves to develop more narrowly than usual with a glossy, dark green color. Cherry crinkle causes leaves to shrivel or crinkle, and leaves are often deformed with some mottling. Both conditions affect the amount of fruit growth on the trees. Any branches afflicted with either of these genetic abnormalities should be removed to allow unaffected limbs to develop.

Brown Rot

Brown rot is caused by a fungus that affects the blossoms, fruit, stems and leaves of cherry trees. Affected leaves shrivel, die and turn brown, but generally remain on the tree during winter. The fungus causes blossoms to wilt and turn brown and twigs to develop cankers. Any fruit that develops also turns brown and shrivels. To control brown rot, prune trees to remove diseased, dead limbs and to provide better air circulation. Dispose of any infected fruit.

Care of Cherry Trees

Cherry trees need a place with full sun to properly develop blossoms and fruit, so plant them in an area where they are not shaded by other trees or structures and give them enough space to provide good air circulation. The trees require yearly pruning to maintain good shape and structure as well as good sanitation. For proper pollination, sweet cherries need a second tree to produce, while tart cherry trees are self-fruitful.

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