Tree Fruit Growers Reminded To Scout For Fire Blight

Washington State University is warning that fire blight is now showing up in orchards, and growers need to act quickly.  Symptoms are appearing in both trial orchards and commercial blocks, especially in areas where infection conditions were present around April 22nd.

WSU noted this week is considered an ideal time to begin scouting and removing infected plant material.

Fire blight is caused by the bacteria E. amylovora, which can spread rapidly—moving about two inches per day through young shoots.  If left unchecked, it produces bacterial ooze that can be carried by insects and wind, spreading infection throughout an orchard.  Experts say early pruning of infected areas is critical—not only to limit spread between trees, but also to prevent the disease from killing entire trees.

WSU is encouraging growers to check out their four-minute animated video showing fire blight infection and movement.

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