Identification
Fire blight will present in different ways, depending on the stage of its life cycle. At first, infected trees and shrubs will exhibit signs of blossom blight, which is when the blossoms appear water-soaked but quickly turn brown or black. As the disease progresses, the shoots and leaves of the plant wilt, turn black and curl into a shape resembling a shepherd’s hook. This is known as shoot blight. Eventually the fire blight will move on to the branches and trunks, showing up as cankers. These cankers will ooze a fluid when weather conditions turn warm and humid. This fluid is the primary agent for spreading the disease, as insects, rain and pruning tools can carry it to healthy plants.
Life Cycle
The bacterium that results in fire blight undergoes a complex disease cycle that involves several stages, from the onset of the infection to the development of symptoms. Its life cycle is intricately linked to that of its host plants and in alignment with environmental conditions. The bacterium overwinters in infected branches, emerging during humid weather conditions in spring. As flowers of affected trees and shrubs bloom, the bacterium will establish the infection through natural openings or insect-induced wounds. This leads to the rapid spread of the disease, infecting shoots, branches, and, eventually, the root system, leading to the death of the plant.
Distribution & Habitat
Fire blight is prevalent across the United States, thriving in areas with warm temperatures and high humidity. These are conditions that are often present during the spring and early summer, making the bloom periods of vulnerable trees and shrubs a critical time for disease spread. The disease primarily affects both the commercial and ornamental varieties of apple and pear trees as well as a wide range of other plants within the rose family.
Damage & Symptoms
Fire blight causes significant damage to trees and shrubs, including the death of blossoms, shoots, and limbs. The disease can quickly move into the main branches and trunk, leading to the death of the entire plant if not managed promptly. Infected plants exhibit water-soaked blossoms, blackened shoots and limbs, and ooze that emanates from infected areas, especially in high humidity. The progressive nature of fire blight not only weakens the plant but can also lead to secondary infections, further accelerating the plant’s decline. These symptoms not only detract from the aesthetic value of landscapes but also the yield and health of fruit-bearing trees as they weaken and eventually kill the host plant. This can lead to economic distress for orchard owners.
Management & Control
Prevention
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