How to spot it

Blossoms and shoot tips suddenly turn brown or black as if scorched, and the tips bend over like a shepherd's crook. Amber ooze can seep from branches.

What it does

It can kill branches and, on pears, whole trees.

What to do now

• In dry weather, cut off infected shoots 8 to 12 inches below the damage. Dip the pruners in 1 part bleach to 10 parts water between cuts.
• Spraying copper while trees bloom can protect them in warm, wet springs.

Keep it away next time

• Plant resistant varieties.
• Avoid heavy nitrogen feeding and hard pruning, which push soft growth.
• Cut out cankers in winter.

Helpful supplies

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Plants it affects

See also