Some plants shed diseased leaf tissue in response to fungal or bacterial infections. While damage from shot hole disease may be easily confused with insect feeding, shot hole is a disease found only on plants in the genus Prunus. Infected leaves are covered with circular, "shot" holes where diseased tissue has fallen out. Infected leaves may become chlorotic and drop prematurely. Shot hole may be caused by fungi or bacteria. Similar symptoms can be caused by insect feeding, so inspect leaves thoroughly for insect feeding and look for irregular feeding of insects to ensure insects are not present.

Rake and remove fallen leaves. Minimize leaf wetness, especially for bacterial shot hole diseases of laurel. Apply several cover sprays of fungicide at recommended intervals to protect new growth.

For chemical control recommendations, consult the Insect and Plant Disease Control Manual, UT Extension Publication 1690, found here. Please contact your local Extension office for specific pesticide recommendations.