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extreme stunted / abnormal leaf growth #875071

Asked June 28, 2024, 10:16 AM EDT

Four of my eight mature bushes (  in northern Cayuga Copunty  ) are exhibiting extreme stunted, clustered leaf growth up and down the main stems; no 'normal' growth is to be seen. The other four bushes - interspersed in the same row! - are fine. (see two photos attached). We experienced two consecutive deep, killing freeze nights in late, late April. The thermometer on our deck registered 25 F. Out where blueberries grow it could easily have been 24! So I suspect freeze damage. Another clue is my 8 plants consist of four of one variety and four of another variety. ( can't remember their names! ) Question #1: is the appearance of my 'bad' bushes consistent with freeze damage?   #2: can disease be ruled out?   #3: Most importantly, can I expect these 'bad' blueberry bushes to bounce back next season and put on new growth for berry production the following season? Or are they a lost cause and I better start shopping for replacement bushes? Appreciate the help!

Cayuga County New York

Expert Response

Hello Christopher,

Thank you for your inquiry and the photos.  This could be a virus.  You should contact your county CCE office and bring in a sample for them to analyze.  Contact:

Lisa Woodruff
Horticulture Educator
<personal data hidden> Ext. 2875
<personal data hidden>
Gardening

Office address:

CCE Cayuga County
199 Franklin Street, Suite 3
Auburn, New York 13021

Best,

Linda Svoboda
Horticulture Program Educator
Cornell Cooperative Extension of Broome County
840 Upper Front Street Ste. 1
Binghamton, New York 13905-1566

An Ask Extension Expert Replied June 28, 2024, 1:49 PM EDT

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