Azalea Leaf Gall

This fungus overwinters in buds and infects newly emerging leaves and flowers of azaleas in the spring. The fleshy galls begin as light green to pink thickened areas on the leaves and eventually turn chalky white as the spores are produced. The wind carries spores from diseased plants to others.

Control: Handpick and destroy distorted leaves when you first notice them, preferably before spores are produced. Avoid wetting the leaves when watering. Improve air circulation by selective pruning. Fungicides are available.