Fire Blight
Risk near you, next 48h
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When it strikes
About
Fire blight (Erwinia amylovora) is a destructive bacterial disease of apple, pear, quince and related plants that spreads rapidly during warm, humid bloom, killing blossoms, shoots and whole limbs.
Symptoms
Blossoms and shoots suddenly wilt, blacken and bend into a shepherd's crook as if scorched by fire; sunken cankers ooze amber bacterial droplets in warm weather.
Organic Treatment
Prune out infected wood 30 cm below visible damage in dry weather, disinfecting tools between cuts. Apply copper at bud break; avoid heavy nitrogen and summer pruning.
Chemical Treatment
Streptomycin during bloom where permitted, or copper-based bactericides on a bloom schedule.
Prevention
Plant resistant cultivars, avoid excess nitrogen and vigorous succulent growth, prune in dry winter weather, and remove cankers.