Pear trees are quite susceptible to various diseases. Some of these are so harmful that the entire tree dies. How to recognize which disease has attacked your pear tree and what you can do about it.

What diseases can affect pear trees?

The most common diseases of the pear tree include:

  • pear grating
  • fire blight
  • tree cancer
  • Pear Blossom Burn
  • Pear decay - phytoplasmosis

Each disease presents striking pictures that will help you understand what is wrong with your pear tree.

pear grating

This is an infestation of rust fungus that covers the leaves of the tree with orange spots. The fungus overwinters in juniper bushes. Its spores are airborne. If there is little infestation, it is sufficient to remove and dispose of the leaves. In the case of a severe infestation, spraying with field horsetail decoction or a chemical fungicide helps.

Direct prevention is hardly possible. As a preventive measure, all juniper bushes near the pear tree should be removed.

fire blight

Fire blight is probably the most dangerous fruit tree disease of all. It is notifiable! Inform the municipal garden office if it occurs.

The affected parts of the plant turn black and fall off. Young trees die within a year, with larger ones it sometimes takes a few years.

Small trees must be cleared immediately. Larger trees can be saved if all affected parts are completely cut back. To prevent this, make sure that your work equipment is very clean.

tree cancer

Tree canker occurs on the trunk and branches. The bark shows dry, orange and brown discolored spots. Thick bumps form on thick trunks and branches, which can tear open.

Small trees that are severely infested die off or are immediately cleared if possible. For larger trees, it helps to cut off all affected areas down to the healthy wood. The interfaces must be sealed with wound balm. Clippings must be incinerated or disposed of safely.

Pear Blossom Burn

Pear blossom smut is caused by a bacterium. Black dots develop on the flower, which also show up on the fruit after the leaves fall off. The fruits are not ready for harvest and fall off.

Copper preparations available in specialist shops can be used to combat it.

Pear decay - phytoplasmosis

If the pear tree sheds a lot of leaves from June and many dry small branches form, pear decay may be the cause. The disease is transmitted by pests such as aphids, pear leaf suckers or cicadas. Most trees die within a few years.

It can help to provide the tree with additional nutrients to curb the disease. Fertilize the tree with mature compost or rotted manure.

tips and tricks

A good location and optimal care are the best prevention against tree diseases. A healthy tree is not as endangered by pathogens as a weak one. In an acute case, do not immediately reach for the chemical club, but first try to save your tree with proven home remedies.

Category:

Trees