Fire blight
CLASSIFICATION
Bacteria, Gammaproteobacteria, Erwiniaceae, Erwinia
ABOUT
Fire blight is a bacterial disease caused by Erwinia amylovora. It typically affects trees and shrubs leading to a burnt appearance.
How to treat?
- Biological
If possible remove and destroy the infected parts of the plant. Remove an additional 60 cm of healthy tissue surrounding the damage and burn it.
If the infection is widespread, remove and destroy the infected plant. Burn it or toss it into the garbage. Do not compost.
- Chemical
If necessary, apply copper spray as a bactericide. It will reduce the spreading of bacteria.
If necessary, apply bactericide containing streptomycin (GHS08: Health hazard). It will reduce the spreading of bacteria.
- Disease prevention
Keep the moisture low, avoid prolonged wetting of the leaves (e.g. by overhead irrigation) and ensure good soil drainage.
Use resistant species and cultivars as well as healthy, certified seeds and seedlings.
Disinfect tools, infected flower pots, and hands to avoid disease transmission.
Avoid excess nitrogen fertilization. It would promote rapid growth and make the plant more susceptible to infection.