Combating Fire Blight in local CT Apple Orchards

A highly contagious disease known as fire blight threatens Connecticut’s apple orchards. This bacterial infection enters apple trees during flowering, causing wilting of leaves, turning them brown and dry, and preventing fruit from setting. The scientific name for this blight is Erwinia amylovora. If left unchecked, it can spread to the trunk and roots, ultimately killing the tree. 

Fire blight poses a dual threat: immediate yield reduction due to flower loss and long-term economic impact as it migrates through the tree. Varieties like Fuji, Gala, and Honey Crisp are susceptible. 

The total annual loss in yield nationally was estimated at $100 million in the early 2000s and could be even higher now.

Check out the Courant article titled “There’s a Highly Contagious Blight Attacking CT Orchards: How It Causes a ‘Devastating Impact” for more details! 😊🍎🌳