Knowledgebase
Bradford Pear problem #872024
Asked June 07, 2024, 10:34 AM EDT
Huron County Michigan
Expert Response
The tree likely succumbed to fire blight.
https://www.canr.msu.edu/ipm/diseases/fire_blight
And yes, removal is recommended. If you can burn it safely, that is best. Otherwise moving the tree off site is best. The blight can survive in wood chips.
Thank you,
-Julie
ty
From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Ask Extension
Sent: Monday, June 10, 2024 9:25 AM
To: scott c iseler <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: Bradford Pear problem (#0141942)
Should I be spraying the surrounding trees to protect them from infection??
From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Ask Extension
Sent: Friday, June 7, 2024 10:35 AM
To: scott c iseler <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Thank you for your Ask Extension question (#0141942)
Dear scott,
Thank you for using Ask Extension. A request for support has been created and a representative will follow-up with you as soon as possible. Questions are usually answered within two business days. You can view this question's progress online.
YOUR QUESTION #0141942:
Bradford Pear problem
This tree [directly next to another flowered, then wilted, failed to leaf out. is there a chance it is NOT diseased? Is there a chance it will live till next spring? Should I cut it & burn it ASAP?
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A good practice would be to monitor remaining trees this year for any sign of infection like dead leaves on dead twigs and branches. If you spot those, or any other oddity, examine the branch or main stem near where the branch begins and look for signs of a canker (cracked bark or an area of sunken bark, a hole oozing sap). Cankers can be preemptively cut out and removed.
It would also be a good idea to spray remaining trees with a copper based pesticide when the tips of the buds begin to break next spring. Always read and follow label directions when using an insecticide.
The article below outlines the the life cycle of fire blight, what to look for new infection, and when to proactively spray in the spring.
https://ohioline.osu.edu/factsheet/plpath-fru-22-0
Wishing you and your trees all the best!
-Julie
ty
From: ask=<personal data hidden> <ask=<personal data hidden>> On Behalf Of Ask Extension
Sent: Tuesday, June 11, 2024 3:26 PM
To: scott c iseler <<personal data hidden>>
Subject: Re: Bradford Pear problem (#0141942)
