Hi,

I raised this issue last year without being able to resolve it, but
since it's recurring I thought I'd ask again.

The problem is some kind of blight or fungus, I believe. The leaves on
the apples in question darken, first in the veins then generally, giving
a dull, bruised sort of look. Then in the next stage they go black and
crisp from the edges inwards, before finally falling. This affects new
growth as well.

The two affected trees are in a corner so this year I cut the hedges
well back and down, and did all I could to encourage air flow around
them. I also fed them. In spite of that, this disease is showing signs
of starting up again.

The two trees are a russet, I don't know more than that about it, and a
complete mystery apple (came at a knock-down price because the label had
fallen off). In their first planted year both were completely healthy.

I've exhausted my repertoire of organic things to do, so I wondered if
there was a specific anti-fungal/viral spray or wash for fruit trees? Or
what else might I do? Might it be something in the soil?

Thanks...

Brian Mitchell