The causal agent of cherry necrotic rusty mottle has not been identified. The disease is transmitted via budding and grafting with infected wood. Spread from tree to tree within orchards has been observed in other states, but not in California. Brown lesions develop on leaves about one month after full bloom. Lesion tissue may drop out, leaving shot holes, and the affected leaves drop prematurely. Shortly before harvest, infected leaves may develop a yellow and dark green mottling. Terminal buds may be killed, and dead patches may develop on bark, with blisters and gum deposits. To control cherry necrotic rusty mottle, plant certified trees and remove any trees that develop symptoms.