Fire Blight on Bradford Pear Trees: A Devastating Disease

Fire blight is a bacterial disease that affects many plants in the rose family, including ornamental pear trees like the Bradford pear tree. This highly invasive and destructive disease can cause significant damage to apple and pear trees in home gardens. In this article, we will discuss the symptoms, causes, and prevention methods of fire blight on Bradford pear trees.

Symptoms of Fire Blight

The first signs of fire blight typically appear in early spring when temperatures are above 60°F and the weather is rainy or humid. The disease begins to spread down the twig into the main stem, where a canker forms. During wet spring weather, a milky-like liquid may ooze from infected plant parts, containing the bacterial pathogen.

As the disease progresses, many parts of the plant may be affected, including blossoms, stems, leaves, and fruit. Cracks may appear in the bark around the cankers, which initially have a water-soaked appearance but later become sunken and dark. The leaves on affected branches wilt, blacken, and remain attached to the plant, giving it a fire-scorched appearance.

Causes of Fire Blight

Fire blight is caused by the bacterium Erwinia amylovora, which can enter the plant through natural openings or wounds. Insects and splashing rain can then spread the disease from one plant to another.

Prevention Methods

There are several methods for preventing fire blight on Bradford pear trees:

1. Prune out blackened twigs and branches with cankers during the dormant season.

2. Selecting tolerant varieties: Some ornamental pear trees, such as 'Bradford', were considered resistant to the disease but can still become infected under favorable conditions.

3. Using recommended cultural practices and sanitation measures:

* Remove any debris or dead plant material from around the base of the tree.

* Disinfect pruning tools after each cut to prevent spreading the disease.

4. Applying bactericides and insecticides: These can help reduce disease severity but are not 100 percent effective.

Fire blight is a devastating disease that can cause significant damage to Bradford pear trees. By understanding the symptoms, causes, and prevention methods of this disease, gardeners can take steps to protect their trees from infection. Remember to prune out blackened twigs and branches during the dormant season, select tolerant varieties, use recommended cultural practices and sanitation measures, and apply bactericides and insecticides as necessary. With proper care and attention, Bradford pear trees can thrive and remain a beautiful addition to any garden or landscape.

Fire blight on bradford pear trees