Knowledgebase
Spring Snow Crab Fire Blight #260277
Asked July 08, 2015, 3:03 PM EDT
Is the tree likely to survive given the extent of the fire blight?
I read the fire blight fact sheet - given the spread of the fire blight is it better to wait until winter to prune or do it during the summer or take another approach?
Douglas County Colorado
Expert Response
The tree may survive if it hasn't been subjected to weather and disease in the past. If the fire blight has reached the main trunk, it is unlikely to survive. Pruning of the blighted twigs/branches should be done 8-12 inches below the edge of visible infection. Make sure to sterilize all tools by dipping in bleach or ethyl alcohol, or a household disinfectant after each cut. This will help avoid spreading the fire blight. Advise that pruning should be done when the weather isn't rainy, so pick a dry sunny day when there is no chance of rain for 48 hours.
I read the fire blight fact sheet - given the spread of the fire blight is it better to wait until winter to prune or to do it during the summer or take another approach?
In response to when to prune for fire blight, you do not need to wait to prune. You can prune during the growing season while the disease is active. It is actually best to prune as soon as symptoms develop. The most important fact is that as you prune, you must sanitize your equipment after EACH AND EVERY CUT. The following fact sheet will give you the appropriate way to sanitize your equipment.
http://www.ext.colostate.edu/ptlk/1411.html
Good luck with this. We hope this fully answers your question.
