Hi all,

Over the last couple years, we have noticed that the bottom branches of a pear tree and an ornamental apple tree lose their leaves on the bottom branches. The leaves turn brown and fall off beginning around mid to late August. The pears on the affected branches usually have a lot of black spots and cracks on them. They are pretty much inedible. I have attached a picture of the pear tree. Do you know what might be causing this and if there is any way to prevent it?

Thank you.