Citrus canker is a bacterial disease that causes lesions on leaves, stems and fruit. It is not harmful to humans, but it causes premature leaf and fruit drop and will eventually render trees unproductive. Fruit infected with canker is safe to eat, but it is too unsightly to be sold. Citrus canker can be spread rapidly by wind and rain, landscaping equipment, people's hands or clothing, and by moving infected plants or plant parts.
To learn more about citrus canker, select a question below to expand the answer.
What does citrus canker look like?
Symptoms on leaves and fruit are brown, raised lesions surrounded by an oily, water-soaked margin and a yellow ring or halo. Old lesions in leaves may fall out, creating a shot-hole effect.
Is the disease harmful to me?
No, citrus canker does not harm humans or animals or plant life other than citrus.
I think my tree has citrus canker. What should I do?
Please contact your local Extension office.
Can I send in a sample of my sick citrus tree?
Please do not mail or bring in samples to your county Extension office. Instead, ask them to send an agent out to examine your tree.
Can I plant citrus?
Yes. However, you must purchase certified citrus plants from nurseries that are registered with the state. Because of devastating diseases such as citrus canker and citrus greening, we strongly recommend that residents find
alternatives to planting citrus
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. There are many wonderful fruit trees that can be grown in your area.
Can I cut down my citrus tree, or can I hire someone to cut it down?
Voluntary removal of citrus trees is allowed.
Are the quarantines still in effect?
The individual quarantines have been eliminated, but there is a U.S. Department of Agriculture statewide quarantine in effect. There are restrictions on shipping or taking fruit out of Florida. Visit the Citrus Quarantine page for more information.
