Spring is the time when trees that were dormant return to life. Unfortunately, it’s also when damaging fire blight appears. With a keen eye and professional tree care, you can protect precious trees from permanent damage due to this infectious disease.

Understanding Fire Blight

Fire blight is an incurable disease that kills and disfigures tree and shrub branches, leaves, and blossoms. Bacteria called Erwinia amylovora causes this highly destructive Midwest tree disease. Warm and wet conditions in spring encourage the growth and spread of the bacteria that oozes from canker edges. Bees and flies are drawn to the ooze and transfer the substance when they move to other plants and flowers.

Affected Trees

Internationally, more than 130 species of trees in the rose family are prone to develop fire blight. In the Midwest, the disease often attacks pear, quince, apple, mountain ash, and hawthorn trees. Signs of damaged foliage resemble a shepherd’s crook, with semicircular curved twigs; wilted leaves and buds; and darker green, brown, or black bacterial burns. Fire blight can affect trees in residential areas and large commercial orchards.

Treating the Disease Professionally

Certified arborists treat fire blight with a combination of tree care methods. Spraying copper compounds prevents bacterial colonies from developing on tree bark and buds, while applying antibiotics protects blooming flowers. Saving trees with infected branches may require removing affected limbs down to the trunk, which prevents the bacteria from spreading. Tree maintenance professionals prefer tree pruning during the dormant season or in dry, hot weather during the growing season. These seasonal periods provide greater opportunities for successful outcomes.

Keep your foliage healthy and beautiful with high-quality tree care from Hudson Tree Service. Based in Millstadt, IL, these experienced certified arborists serve clients throughout St Clair, Monroe, and Madison counties, providing tree spraying, pruning, and more. Visit their website to learn more about their experience, and call (618) 233-2900 to schedule a tree inspection and maintenance appointment.