All posts by hudelson

Disease - Broad Leafed Woody Ornamental, Disease - Fruit Crop

Black Knot

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UW Plant Disease Facts

 

Authors:   Brian Hudelson, UW-Madison Plant Pathology
Last Revised:   02/28/2024
D-number:   D0018
 
A typical older black knot gall with colonization by whitish secondary fungi. (Photo courtesy of Patricia McManus)
A typical older black knot gall with colonization by whitish secondary fungi. (Photo courtesy of Patricia McManus)

What is black knot? 

Black knot is a disfiguring and potentially lethal disease of trees and shrubs in the genus Prunus.  This genus includes stone fruits such as wild, fruit-bearing and ornamental plums and cherries.

What does black knot look like? 

During the first year of infection, black knot-infected trees develop greenish-brown to brown swellings on affected branches and trunks.  During the second year, these swellings enlarge into the ugly, black, erupting tumors (galls) characteristic of the disease.  These galls resemble animal feces attached to branches (affectionately referred to as “poop-on-a-stick”).  Older (greater than two years old) gall tissue often dies and then is colonized by fungi that give the gall a whitish or pinkish color.  Severe black knot infections may cause general tree decline or death if galls girdle large limbs, or tree trunks.

Where does black knot come from? 

Black knot is caused by the fungus Apiosporina morbosa, which survives in black knot galls on infected Prunus trees.  Spores of the fungus are released from these galls and infect new branches in late spring or early summer during periods of wet weather and mild temperatures (55°F to 75°F).

How do I save a tree with black knot? 

To manage existing black knot galls, simply remove the galls each winter from infected trees, then burn (where allowed by local ordinance) or bury them.  Prune branches six to eight inches below each gall.  On trunks, you can use a chisel to remove tissue from at least one inch beyond the infected area.  Keep in mind however, that doing this creates a wound that can provide an entry point for other serious Prunus pathogens such as the bacteria that cause bacterial canker (see UW Plant Disease Facts D0009, Bacterial Canker).  After removing galls, be sure to clean pruning tools between cuts by treating them for at least 30 seconds with 70% alcohol (e.g, rubbing alcohol or spray disinfectants) or a 10% bleach solution.  This will prevent accidental movement of the black knot fungus from branch to branch, or from tree to tree as galls are removed.  If you use bleach, be sure to thoroughly rinse your tools after you are done pruning and oil them to prevent rusting.

How do I avoid problems with black knot in the future?  

In established plantings, remove any volunteer or wild cherry or plum trees from within 500 feet of susceptible fruit-bearing or ornamental cherries or plums.  When purchasing new cherries and plums, carefully inspect trees prior to purchase to be sure they are free of black knot.  When available, buy black knot-resistant ornamental cherry or plum species or varieties such as Prunus ‘Accolade’, Prunus sargentii, and Prunus maackii.  DO NOT attempt to control this disease using fungicide treatments, as these treatments are expensive and not likely to be effective.

For more information on black knot: 

Contact the University of Wisconsin Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic (PDDC) at (608) 262-2863 or pddc@wisc.edu.

This Fact Sheet is also available in PDF format:

© 2000-2024 the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System doing business as University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.

An EEO/Affirmative Action employer, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming, including Title IX and ADA requirements. This document can be provided in an alternative format by calling Brian Hudelson at (608) 262-2863 (711 for Wisconsin Relay).

Thanks to Patty McManus and Teryl Roper for reviewing this document.

A complete inventory of UW Plant Disease Facts is available at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic website: https://pddc.wisc.edu.

Submit additional lawn, landscape, and gardening questions at https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/ask-a-gardening-question/.

Disease - Fruit Crop

Bitter Pit and Cork Spot

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UW Plant Disease Facts

 

Authors:   Teryl Roper, UW-Madison, Department of Horticulture
Last Revised:   02/28/2024
D-number:   D0017
 
An apple with symptoms of bitter pit.
An apple with symptoms of bitter pit.

Bitter pit and cork spot are common disorders of Wisconsin apples.  These two disorders do not occur every year, but when weather conditions are just right (or just wrong, depending on your perspective), they can be major problems.  This fact sheet describes the causes of the disorders and what can be done to reduce the severity of the problems.

The name bitter pit will be used for both cork spot and bitter pit since they are related disorders.  Bitter pit shows as brownish spots in the fruit flesh.  The spots actually occur in the outer layers of the fruit but are visible through the skin.  Bitter pit may develop before or after harvest.  Cork spot develops before harvest.  The flesh layers underlying the skin collapse, become brown and take on a “corky” appearance.  The exact underlying cause of these disorders is not known, however, they are both known to be calcium related.

Several factors are associated with development of bitter pit.

High tree vigor. 

Trees that are invigorated by heavy pruning, light crops, or nitrogen applications beyond sufficient ranges have a higher incidence of bitter pit.  Pruning is vegetatively invigorating and trees that are heavily pruned will also have light crops and substantial vegetative growth.  High nitrogen fertilizer doses also lead to substantial vegetative growth.  Vegetative growth competes with fruit for available calcium.  If calcium is shunted to vegetative growth, it is not available for fruit growth.  Further, since calcium moves with water in the transpiration stream, greater leaf area will shunt more water (and calcium) to the leaves rather than fruit.

Moisture stress.

Trees that have received either too much or too little water are more prone to bitter pit.  The typical situation is too little water.  Related to moisture stress is high temperature.  Hot days lead to greater evapotranspiration from leaves.  Calcium moves in the xylem along with the water that “feeds” the transpiration needs and ends up in leaves rather than fruit.  Once in the leaves, calcium is immobile and will not move back to fruit.

Large fruit. 

Large fruit are more generally more susceptible to bitter pit than smaller fruit.  A light crop will not only lead to vegetative vigor, but also to larger fruit and these fruit are more likely to show bitter pit.

To reduce the incidence of bitter pit in apples:

Provide irrigation. 

Most years, irrigation is not critical in Wisconsin and the cost of irrigation can be high.  During dry spells or drought years, however, irrigation is very valuable for maintaining soil moisture levels and reducing tree stress.

Apply calcium sprays. 

Since calcium is immobile in plants once it has reached its destination, it is good practice to apply calcium to a tree so that some will end up on the fruit and be absorbed through the cuticle.  You can use either calcium nitrate or calcium chloride, but calcium chloride is far cheaper.  An additional downside to calcium nitrate is that it aggravates the “too much vigor” problem.  Use four pounds of calcium chloride per acre, beginning with the first cover spray through late July.  Then increase the calcium chloride rate to 6 lbs. per acre.  For small orchards, this is equivalent to approximately 6 oz. of calcium chloride per gallon.  During prolonged dry weather, eliminate calcium chloride applications to prevent buildup on the foliage and fruit that may cause burning.  Do not make another application unless it has rained since the previous application.  There are different calcium chloride products.  Research in several states has shown that all products are equally effective if applied at the same rate of calcium, so use the cheapest option.

Include calcium in postharvest dip tanks or wash water. 

Michigan research has shown that a 4% dip or drench of calcium chloride will reduce the incidence or delay development of bitter pit in storage.  Mix the solution as 33 pounds of calcium chloride per 100 gallons of water.  After storage, fruits must be washed again to remove the calcium deposits.

Remember that calcium chloride is corrosive to metal so be sure to clean all equipment thoroughly after using calcium chloride.  Painting and upkeep becomes even more important if calcium chloride is used.

I wish there were some “magic bullet” that would reduce the incidence and severity of bitter pit.  Unfortunately, the problem is weather related and has several variables that determine its severity and incidence.  In general, techniques that keep vigor under control and maintain a reasonable crop load (to keep competing calcium sinks from accumulating calcium that should go to fruit), coupled with applying calcium in cover sprays and at post harvest will help reduce the problem.  There are no easy solutions.

For more information on bitter pit and cork spot: 

Contact the University of Wisconsin Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic (PDDC) at (608) 262-2863 or pddc@wisc.edu.

This Fact Sheet is also available in PDF format:

© 2000-2024 the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System doing business as University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.

An EEO/Affirmative Action employer, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming, including Title IX and ADA requirements. This document can be provided in an alternative format by calling Brian Hudelson at (608) 262-2863 (711 for Wisconsin Relay).

A complete inventory of UW Plant Disease Facts is available at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic website: https://pddc.wisc.edu.

Submit additional lawn, landscape, and gardening questions at https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/ask-a-gardening-question/.

Misc

Bird’s Nest Fungi

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UW Plant Disease Facts

 

Authors:   Amy Gibbs and Brian Hudelson, UW-Madison Plant Pathology
Last Revised:   02/28/2024
D-number:   D0016

What are bird’s nest fungi? 

Bird’s nest fungi are a group of organisms named for their resemblance to miniature bird’s nests.  These fungi are found all over the world, growing and reproducing on decomposing organic matter.  In temperate regions, bird’s nest fungi can be found virtually anytime there are damp, shady conditions, but they are most commonly seen in the autumn.

Fruiting bodies of Crucibulum laeve found on decaying wood. (Photo courtesy of Mark Steinmetz)
Fruiting bodies of Crucibulum laeve found on decaying wood. (Photo courtesy of Mark Steinmetz)

What do bird’s nest fungi look like? 

Bird’s nest fungi can be identified by the appearance of a brown, gray, or white outer “nest”, with brown or white “eggs” inside.  The “eggs” are actually spore-containing structures called peridioles that rest inside the cup-shaped fruiting body (reproductive structure).  Individual fruiting bodies are usually only ¼ to ½ inch in diameter and vary in shape, size, and color depending upon species.

Where do bird’s nest fungi come from? 

Bird’s nest fungi are classified in the fungal group gasteromycetes.  Cyathus spp., Nidula spp., Crucibulum spp., Nidularia spp., and Mycocalia spp. are the most common genera of bird’s nest fungi.  These fungi are often found in moist, shaded areas, and typically survive on soil, plant remains, decaying wood, or horse and cow excrement.  The characteristic “cup and egg” structure of the bird’s nest fungi provides a unique method of dispersing spores.  In a storm, the “eggs” are splashed out of the “cups” by raindrops.  “Eggs” can travel a three feet or more before sticking to another object.  When the “egg” dries, it splits open releasing fungal spores.

What do I do with bird’s nest fungi in my yard? 

Bird’s nest fungi are not harmful to living plants, and control of these fungi is typically not necessary.  In fact, bird’s nest fungi can be fascinating organisms to observe when you find them in your yard.  On occasion, bird’s nest fungi can be a nuisance, particularly when the “eggs” stick to objects such as houses or cars where they are difficult to remove.  If bird’s nest fungi become a nuisance, the number of fruiting bodies can be reduced by decreasing irrigation and raking the affected area.  The use of non-mulch groundcovers, such as ivy, can also reduce the occurrence of these fungi.  Fungicides are not recommended for treatment of bird’s nest fungi.

For more information on bird’s nest fungi: 

Contact the University of Wisconsin Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic (PDDC) at (608) 262-2863 or pddc@wisc.edu.

This Fact Sheet is also available in PDF format:

© 2002-2024 the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System doing business as University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.

An EEO/Affirmative Action employer, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming, including Title IX and ADA requirements. This document can be provided in an alternative format by calling Brian Hudelson at (608) 262-2863 (711 for Wisconsin Relay).

References to pesticide products in this publication are for your convenience and are not an endorsement or criticism of one product over similar products. You are responsible for using pesticides according to the manufacturer’s current label directions. Follow directions exactly to protect the environment and people from pesticide exposure. Failure to do so violates the law.

Thanks to Kristin Kleeberger, Mike Maddox, and Ann Wied for reviewing this document.

A complete inventory of UW Plant Disease Facts is available at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic website: https://pddc.wisc.edu.

Submit additional lawn, landscape, and gardening questions at https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/ask-a-gardening-question/.

Disease - Vegetable

Bacterial Wilt of Cucurbits

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UW Plant Disease Facts

 

Authors:   José Pablo Soto-Arias*, UW-Madison Plant Pathology
Last Revised:   02/28/2024
D-number:   D0014

What is bacterial wilt? 

Bacterial wilt is a common and destructive disease that affects cucurbits (i.e., plants in the cucumber family), including economically important crops such as melon (Cucumis melo), cucumber (Cucumis sativus) and, to a lesser extent, squash and pumpkin (Cucurbita spp.).  This disease is distributed throughout the United States; and can be found anywhere that cucurbits are grown.

Sudden wilting and eventual death of melon, cucumber and squash plants can be due to bacterial wilt. (Photo courtesy of ISU-PIDC.)
Sudden wilting and eventual death of melon, cucumber and squash plants can be due to bacterial wilt. (Photo courtesy of ISU-PIDC.)

What does bacterial wilt look like? 

The most distinctive symptom exhibited by a plant with bacterial wilt is wilting and ultimately death.  These symptoms are a consequence of the blockage of water movement inside of the plant.  Symptoms appear first on leaves of a single runner (vine).  Leaves may develop chlorotic (i.e., yellow) and necrotic (i.e., dead) areas as the disease progresses.  Symptoms typically develop rapidly along individual runners, and eventually, the plant’s crown is affected, resulting in the entire plant dying.  To determine if a symptomatic plant has bacterial wilt, cut a wilted vine near the base of the plant.  Next cut a section from this vine and look for sticky threads to form between the two vine sections as you slowly pull them apart.  The presence of these sticky threads is diagnostic.  This technique works best for cucumbers and melon, but less well for squash and pumpkins.

Where does bacterial wilt come from? 

Bacterial wilt of cucurbits is caused by the bacterium Erwinia tracheiphila.  This bacterium is moved from plant to plant by two insects: the striped cucumber beetle (Acalymma vittatum) and the spotted cucumber beetle (Diabrotica undecimpunctata).  See University of Wisconsin Garden Facts XHT1092, Cucumber Beetles, for details on these insects  The bacterium primarily overwinters in the guts of adult beetles, and is released when beetles feed on healthy cucurbit plants and excrete contaminated frass (i.e., feces) onto fresh feeding wounds.  E. tracheiphila has been found in association with wild cucurbits and other plants such as goldenrods (Solidago nemoralis and S. altissima), Johnson grass (Sorghum halepense) and even corn (Zea mays).  However, most of these plants never show wilt symptoms, and none are considered an important reservoir for the bacterium.

How do I save a plant with bacterial wilt? 

Bacterial wilt cannot be controlled once a plant is infected.  In particular, chemical sprays are not effective for control once plants show symptoms.  If you find bacterial wilt in your garden, immediately remove infected plants, and dispose of them by burning (where allowed by law) or burying them.  DO NOT compost infected plants.  Prompt removal and disposal of infected plants is important not only because they serve as a source of E. tracheiphila, but because they attract more cucumber beetles, thus increasing the risk of spread of the bacterium to other, healthy plants.

How do I avoid problems with bacterial wilt in the future?  

Management of bacterial wilt relies on control of cucumber beetles to prevent infection.  Target non-chemical and chemical control methods to protect plants at the beginning of the growing season when plants are more attractive to cucumber beetles.  Use mechanical barriers, such as row covers, to protect plants from cucumber beetle feeding.  Also, inspect cucurbits on a regular basis for cucumber beetles and their damage (two to three times per week early in the season, and weekly thereafter).  When cucumber beetle numbers are high (more than 20 per plant), spray plants with an appropriate insecticide (see UW Garden Facts XHT1092 for recommended insecticides).  Be sure to read and follow all label instructions of the insecticide(s) that you select to ensure that you use the insecticide(s) in the safest and most effective manner possible.  Cucurbit varieties resistant to bacterial wilt are not currently available.  However, some cucurbits such as watermelons and pickling cucumbers tend to be less attractive to cucumber beetles and thus tend to have fewer problems with bacterial wilt.  These crops can be used as alternatives to more susceptible cucurbit species.

For more information on bacterial wilt of cucurbits: 

Contact the University of Wisconsin Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic (PDDC) at (608) 262-2863 or pddc@wisc.edu.

This Fact Sheet is also available in PDF format:

*Completed as partial fulfillment of the requirements for Plant Pathology 558 at the University of Wisconsin Madison.

© 2013-2024 the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System doing business as University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.

An EEO/Affirmative Action employer, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming, including Title IX and ADA requirements. This document can be provided in an alternative format by calling Brian Hudelson at (608) 262-2863 (711 for Wisconsin Relay).

References to pesticide products in this publication are for your convenience and are not an endorsement or criticism of one product over similar products. You are responsible for using pesticides according to the manufacturer’s current label directions. Follow directions exactly to protect the environment and people from pesticide exposure. Failure to do so violates the law.

Thanks to Kimberly Cowles, Amanda Gevens, Kristin Krokowski, Jenna Lind, Dan O’Neil, Isael Rubio-Salaz ar and Tom Wilson for reviewing this document.

A complete inventory of UW Plant Disease Facts is available at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic website: https://pddc.wisc.edu.

Submit additional lawn, landscape, and gardening questions at https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/ask-a-gardening-question/.

Disease - Broad Leafed Woody Ornamental

Bacterial Wetwood

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UW Plant Disease Facts

 

Authors:   Mary Francis Heimann*, O.S.F. and Brian Hudelson, UW-Madison Plant Pathology
Last Revised:   02/28/2024
D-number:   D0013

What is bacterial wetwood? 

Bacterial wetwood, also known as “slime flux”, is a visually frightening-looking, but typically non-lethal, disorder of many types of deciduous trees.  This disorder can reduce the aesthetic appeal of landscape trees, and more seriously, can substantially reduce the value of forest trees used for lumber.  Bacterial wetwood most commonly affects elm and poplar, but can also be a serious problem on aspen, maple, and mulberry.

Bacterial wetwood leads to discolored, rancid-smelling areas on tree trunks.
Bacterial wetwood leads to discolored, rancid-smelling areas on tree trunks.

What does bacterial wetwood look like? 

Trees suffering from bacterial wetwood have areas where liquid oozes from their trunks.  This ooze may flow freely at certain times of the growing season, but then may stop flowing at others.  The ooze leads to streaked, discolored, water-soaked areas on tree trunks.  The ooze is often colonized by bacteria, as well as yeasts and other fungi.  These organisms can give the ooze a slimy, sometimes brightly-colored (i.e., pink or orange) appearance as well as a highly disagreeable, rancid smell.  Internally, bacterial wetwood can be associated with localized areas of wood decay.

Where does bacterial wetwood come from? 

Bacterial wetwood arises when localized wet areas develop in the heartwood or sapwood of tree trunks.  These areas are colonized by a diverse assortment of bacteria (e.g., Enterobacterium, Klebsiella, Pseudomonas and many others) that can enter trees through root, branch or trunk wounds.  As these bacteria feed and grow, often under anaerobic conditions (i.e., conditions without oxygen), they can produce gases such as methane, carbon dioxide, or nitrogen gas.  These gases build up pressure, causing movement of interior liquids to the exterior of the trunk where they escape through wounds and cracks.

How do I save a tree with bacterial wetwood? 

Bacterial wetwood is a chronic disorder and affected trees cannot be cured.  To limit the unsightly staining of bark caused by bacterial wetwood, try to identify where the ooze is exiting from the trunk and insert a long, plastic tube at this location to direct the ooze away from the trunk and to the ground at the base of the tree.  There has been speculation that the build-up of gases due to bacterial wetwood might cause a tree to explode.  However, there have been no reliable reports of this ever happening.

How do I avoid problems with bacterial wetwood in the future? 

There is little you can do to prevent problems with bacterial wetwood.  Many affected trees were likely invaded by wetwood-associated bacteria in the seedling stage.  Developing a healthy tolerance for bacterial wetwood, when it occurs, is perhaps the best method for coping with this disorder.

For more information on bacterial wetwood: 

Contact the University of Wisconsin Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic (PDDC) at (608) 262-2863 or pddc@wisc.edu.

This Fact Sheet is also available in PDF format:

*Mary Francis Heimann is a Distinguished Outreach Specialist Emerita at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

© 2009-2024 the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System doing business as University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.

An EEO/Affirmative Action employer, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming, including Title IX and ADA requirements. This document can be provided in an alternative format by calling Brian Hudelson at (608) 262-2863 (711 for Wisconsin Relay).

References to pesticide products in this publication are for your convenience and are not an endorsement or criticism of one product over similar products. You are responsible for using pesticides according to the manufacturer’s current label directions. Follow directions exactly to protect the environment and people from pesticide exposure. Failure to do so violates the law.

Thanks to Mike Maddox, Patti Nagai and Christine Regester for reviewing this document.

A complete inventory of UW Plant Disease Facts is available at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic website: https://pddc.wisc.edu.

Submit additional lawn, landscape, and gardening questions at https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/ask-a-gardening-question/.

Disease - Herbaceous Ornamental, Disease - Vegetable

Bacterial Soft Rot

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UW Plant Disease Facts

 

Authors:   Tobias Lunt*, UW-Madison Plant Pathology
Last Revised:   02/28/2024
D-number:   D0010

What is bacterial soft rot? 

Bacterial soft rot describes a group of diseases that cause more crop loss worldwide than any other bacterial disease.  Bacterial soft rots damage succulent plant parts such as fruits, tubers, stems and bulbs of plants in nearly every plant family.  Soft rots commonly affect vegetables such as potato, carrot, tomato, cucurbits (e.g., cucumbers, melons, squash, pumpkins), and cruciferous crops (e.g., cabbage, cauliflower, bok choy).  These diseases can occur on crops in the field as well as on harvested crops in storage.  Rot can occur over a wide temperature range (with the worst decay between 70 and 80°F) and is particularly severe when oxygen is limited.

Bacterial soft rots cause the collapse of plant parts such as potato tubers. (Photo courtesy of the UW-Madison/Extension Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic)
Bacterial soft rots cause the collapse of plant parts such as potato tubers. (Photo courtesy of the UW-Madison/Extension Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic)

What does bacterial soft rot look like? 

Soft rot bacteria degrade pectate molecules that bind plant cells together, thus causing plant structure to fall apart.  Woody tissues are not susceptible.  Initially, bacterial soft rots cause water-soaked spots.  These spots enlarge over time and become sunken and soft.  Interior tissues beneath the spots become mushy and discolored, with the discoloration ranging anywhere from cream to black.  Seepage from affected areas is common.  Soft rots are known for a strong, disagreeable odor that accompanies the breakdown of plant tissue.

Where does bacterial soft rot come from? 

Soft rots are caused by several bacteria, most commonly species of Pectobacterium [particularly Pectobacterium carotovorum (previously called Erwinia carotovora)], Dickeya species [particularly Dickeya dadantii (previously called Erwinia chrysanthemi)], and certain species of Pseudomonas, Bacillus and Clostridium.  These bacteria can enter plants through wounds caused by tools, insects, and severe weather such as hail, as well as through natural openings.  The bacteria can be spread from plant to plant by insects, on contaminated tools, or by movement of infested plant debris, soil, or contaminated water.  Bacterial soft rots tend to be more of a problem during wet weather and can be more severe when plants lack sufficient calcium.

How do I save a plant with bacterial soft rot? 

Once soft rot bacteria have infected plant tissue, there are no treatments.  Immediately remove and discard infected plants or plant parts.  DO NOT bury or compost this material.

How do I avoid problems with bacterial soft rot in the future?  

Avoiding wet conditions is key for managing soft rot.  Plant vegetables in well- drained soils, and control watering times and amounts, making sure plants are watered adequately (but not excessively) and uniformly.  DO NOT crowd plants; wider spacing will promote more rapid drying of plants and soil.  Make sure that soil fertility (particularly soil calcium) is optimal for the vegetables that you are growing based on a soil nutrient test.  Add calcium (e.g., bone meal) at planting as needed.

Use soft rot-resistant vegetables in rotation with susceptible vegetables.  Corn, snap beans and beets are vegetables that are not considered susceptible to soft rot.  When growing broccoli, avoid varieties with flat/concave heads that trap moisture and promote soft rot.  Instead, select varieties with domed heads where water readily drains away.

Avoid damaging vegetables when weeding and during harvest.  Minimize any handling of soft-rotted plants, but if you must handle such plants (e.g., to remove them from the garden), wash your hands afterwards with soap and water.  Decontaminate garden tools before and after use by treating them for at least 30 seconds with 10% bleach or preferably (because of its less corrosive properties), 70% alcohol.  Rubbing alcohol and many spray disinfectants typically contain approximately 70% alcohol.  Also, keep insects that can wound vegetables such as cabbage maggot under control (see University of Wisconsin Garden Facts XHT1030, Cabbage Maggot, for details).

Harvest only during dry conditions.  Closely inspect vegetables from infected gardens that will go into long-term storage, and be sure not to store any diseased vegetables.  Cure vegetables where appropriate prior to storage.  Store vegetables in a cool, dry, well-aerated place to suppress bacterial growth.

At the end of the growing season, remove any infested plant debris remaining in your garden, and destroy the material by burning (where allowed by local ordinance) or landfilling it.  If soft rot is a serious, recurring problem in an area in your garden, DO NOT grow susceptible crops in that area for a minimum of three years.

For more information on bacterial soft rot: 

Contact the University of Wisconsin Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic (PDDC) at (608) 262-2863 or pddc@wisc.edu.

This Fact Sheet is also available in PDF format:

*Completed as partial fulfillment of the requirements for Plant Pathology 558 at the University of Wisconsin Madison.

© 2013-2024 the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System doing business as University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.

An EEO/Affirmative Action employer, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming, including Title IX and ADA requirements. This document can be provided in an alternative format by calling Brian Hudelson at (608) 262-2863 (711 for Wisconsin Relay).

References to pesticide products in this publication are for your convenience and are not an endorsement or criticism of one product over similar products. You are responsible for using pesticides according to the manufacturer’s current label directions. Follow directions exactly to protect the environment and people from pesticide exposure. Failure to do so violates the law.

Thanks to Breann Bender, Amy Charkowski, Mary Pelzer, Scott Reuss, Isael Rubio – Salazar and Mary Thurber for reviewing this document.

A complete inventory of UW Plant Disease Facts is available at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic website: https://pddc.wisc.edu.

Submit additional lawn, landscape, and gardening questions at https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/ask-a-gardening-question/.

Disease - Broad Leafed Woody Ornamental, Disease - Fruit Crop

Bacterial Canker

Extension Logo

UW Plant Disease Facts

 

Authors:   Mary Francis Heimann* and Brian Hudelson, UW-Madison Plant Pathology
Last Revised:   02/28/2024
D-number:   D0009

What is bacterial canker? 

Bacterial canker is a common and sometimes lethal disease of trees in the genus Prunus including cherry, plum and peach.  Bacterial canker is sometimes also referred to as “gummosis”, “blossom blast”, “dieback”, “spur blight” and “twig blight”.

Ooze (see arrow) on Prunus branches or trunks can indicate a bacterial canker problem.
Ooze (see arrow) on Prunus branches or trunks can indicate a bacterial canker problem.

What does bacterial canker look like? 

Often branch dieback is the first symptom of bacterial canker that homeowners notice.  However, other more subtle symptoms of flowers, leaves, fruits and branches typically precede this dieback.  Initially, infected trees are symptomless.  Infected flowers often open but then collapse.  Infected leaves become spotted and yellowed.  The centers of leaf spots often shothole (i.e., fall out).  If spotting is severe, leaves may fall off.  Infected fruits develop dead spots surrounded by water-soaked tissue.  Spots can eventually develop into a fruit rot.  Branch or trunk infections often occur at pruning sites and lead to cankers (i.e., sunken, dead areas).  Cankers often produce a gummy, resinous ooze.  Wood in the cankered area is typically discolored.  Flower, fruit and branch infections can become systemic, leading to twig dieback, death of larger branches, or even death of an entire tree.

Where does bacterial canker come from? 

Bacterial canker is caused by the bacteria Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae (Pss) and P. syringae pv. mors-prunorum (Psm).  These bacteria overwinter in cankers, in asymptomatic, systemically infected branches, and in buds of susceptible trees.  Pss is also known to occur naturally on the leaves of many plants including many weed species.  Both Pss and Psm can subsequently be spread by rain splash, wind, or insects.  The bacteria can also be spread to healthy branches when contaminated pruning tools are used.  Infections most often occur during cool, wet conditions.

How do I save a plant with bacterial canker? 

Prune infected branches at least 12 inches below cankers or other dead tissue, and dispose of branches by burning (where allowed by local ordinance) or burying them.  Prune branches only during the winter (e.g., Jan. and Feb.) or during dry periods in late summer (e.g., Aug.).  DO NOT prune during the cool, wet periods (e.g., spring and fall).  Disinfest pruning tools after each cut by treating them for at least 30 seconds with a 10% bleach solution or preferably 70% alcohol (e.g., rubbing alcohol straight from the bottle or a spray disinfectant).  If you decide to use bleach, be sure to thoroughly rinse and oil your tools after pruning is complete to prevent rusting.

How do I avoid problems with bacterial canker in the future? 

Healthy trees are better able to slow the development of bacterial canker.  Therefore make sure that trees are watered and fertilized properly.  Keep weeds and other plants that may harbor bacterial canker pathogens from around the base of susceptible trees.  Copper-containing sprays have been advocated for bacterial canker management.  However, in many areas, copper-resistant strains of Pss and Psm are present and therefore copper sprays are ineffective.

For more information on bacterial canker: 

Contact the University of Wisconsin Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic (PDDC) at (608) 262-2863 or pddc@wisc.edu.

This Fact Sheet is also available in PDF format:

*Mary Francis Heimann is a Distinguished Outreach Specialist Emerita at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

© 2004-2024 the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System doing business as University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.

An EEO/Affirmative Action employer, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming, including Title IX and ADA requirements. This document can be provided in an alternative format by calling Brian Hudelson at (608) 262-2863 (711 for Wisconsin Relay).

References to pesticide products in this publication are for your convenience and are not an endorsement or criticism of one product over similar products. You are responsible for using pesticides according to the manufacturer’s current label directions. Follow directions exactly to protect the environment and people from pesticide exposure. Failure to do so violates the law.

Thanks to Diana Alfuth, Patty McManus and Ann Wied for reviewing this document.

A complete inventory of UW Plant Disease Facts is available at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic website: https://pddc.wisc.edu.

Submit additional lawn, landscape, and gardening questions at https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/ask-a-gardening-question/.

Disease - Broad Leafed Woody Ornamental

Bacterial Blight

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UW Plant Disease Facts
 
Authors:   Gina Foreman* and Brian Hudelson, UW-Madison Plant Pathology
Last Revised:   02/28/2024
D-number:   D0008
 
Death of lilac branch tips and leaves due to bacterial blight.
Death of lilac branch tips and leaves due to bacterial blight.

What is bacterial blight? 

Bacterial blight, also known as blossom blight or shoot blight, is a common and often serious disease of Chinese, Japanese, Persian and common lilac, as well as walnut, apple, pear, plum and cherry.  White flowering varieties of common lilac are most susceptible to the disease.

What does bacterial blight look like? 

Initial symptoms of bacterial blight may include dark brown necrotic (dead) leaf spots with yellow halos.  If leaf spots develop before leaves are fully expanded, leaf curling and twisting may result.  More advanced symptoms include necrotic blotches starting at the leaf margins and advancing inward, as well as black streaking on twigs.  In its most severe form, bacterial blight can result in the death of branch tips, leaves and blossoms.

Where does bacterial blight come from? 

Bacterial blight is caused by the bacterium Pseudomonas syringae pv. syringae (Pss), which survives in diseased stem tissue (cankers), plant debris, and soil.  Pss can be spread by insects and on pruning tools but is more commonly spread by wind and rain.  Often Pss is found on the surface of healthy plants and does not cause disease.  Infections can occur when the bacterium enters tissue through natural openings or through wounds caused by insects, pruning, wind damage or hail.

How do I save a plant with bacterial blight? 

Prune diseased twigs 10 to 12 inches below the point of visible symptoms, and dispose of the branches by burning (where allowed by local ordinance) or burying them.  Always prune in dry weather, and disinfest pruning tools after each cut by treating them for at least 30 seconds with a 10% bleach solution or preferably 70% alcohol (e.g., rubbing alcohol straight from the bottle or a spray disinfectant).  If you decide to use bleach, be sure to thoroughly rinse and oil your tools after pruning is complete to prevent rusting.

How do I avoid problems with bacterial blight in the future?  

When planting lilacs, provide adequate spacing between shrubs.  Thin individual shrubs each winter to promote good air circulation (see University of Wisconsin Garden Facts XHT1015, Pruning Deciduous Shrubs, for pruning tips).  Properly water, fertilize and mulch shrubs to avoid stress that may predispose them to disease.  Avoid overhead watering that may keep leaves wet.  If you have had chronic problems with bacterial blight, you may want to use a combination of copper and mancozeb-containing fungicides for control.  Apply fungicides two to three times at seven to 10 day intervals as leaves emerge, but before symptoms develop.  Read and follow all label instructions of the fungicide that you select to ensure that you use the fungicide in the safest and most effective manner possible.

For more information on bacterial blight: 

Contact the University of Wisconsin Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic (PDDC) at (608) 262-2863 or pddc@wisc.edu.

This Fact Sheet is also available in PDF format:

*Completed as partial fulfillment of the requirements for Plant Pathology 875 – Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic Internship at the University of Wisconsin Madison.

© 2002-2024 the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System doing business as University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.

An EEO/Affirmative Action employer, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming, including Title IX and ADA requirements. This document can be provided in an alternative format by calling Brian Hudelson at (608) 262-2863 (711 for Wisconsin Relay).

References to pesticide products in this publication are for your convenience and are not an endorsement or criticism of one product over similar products. You are responsible for using pesticides according to the manufacturer’s current label directions. Follow directions exactly to protect the environment and people from pesticide exposure. Failure to do so violates the law.

Thanks to Ann Joy, Kristin Kleeberger and Mike Maddox for reviewing this document.

A complete inventory of UW Plant Disease Facts is available at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic website: https://pddc.wisc.edu.

Submit additional lawn, landscape, and gardening questions at https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/ask-a-gardening-question/.

Disease - Herbaceous Ornamental, Disease - Vegetable

Aster Yellows

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UW Plant Disease Facts

 

Authors:   Brian Hudelson, UW-Madison Plant Pathology
Last Revised:   02/28/2024
D-number:   D0007

What is aster yellows? 

Aster yellows is a chronic, systemic disease that affects over 300 species of broad-leafed, herbaceous plants in at least 38 families.  Members of the aster family (Asteraceae), such as asters, marigolds, Coreopsis and purple coneflower are commonly affected by this disease.  Vegetable crops such as carrots and potatoes are also susceptible.  Aster yellows occurs throughout North America.

Coneflowers with aster yellows (right) often have deformed, discolored flowers.
Coneflowers with aster yellows (right) often have deformed, discolored flowers.

What does aster yellows look like? 

Infected plants are typically stunted and twisted, with foliage that is yellow, purple or red.  Infected plants are often sterile.  Floral parts that are normally brightly colored may be green, and petals and sepals may become puckered and distorted.  In purple coneflower, secondary flower heads (often in a cluster) may emerge from the primary flower head.  In marigolds, flowers are often leafy and a muddy green-orange color.  Infected carrots have purple/red leaves and form taproots with tufts of small, white “hairy” roots.  Tap roots from infected carrots often have a bitter taste.

Where does aster yellows come from? 

Aster yellows is caused by the aster yellows phytoplasma, a bacterium-like organism that lives in the food-conducting tissue (phloem) of plants.  Aster yellows is rarely lethal.  Thus, infected perennials can serve as a source of the aster yellows phytoplasma for many years.  The aster leafhopper (Macrosteles fascifrons), a common insect, moves the aster yellows phytoplasma from plant to plant.

How do I save a plant with aster yellows? 

There is no known cure for aster yellows.  Plants suspected of having aster yellows, including weeds such as dandelions, should be removed immediately so that the aster yellows phytoplasma cannot be spread from infected plants to other non-infected plants in the area.  Proper diagnosis of aster yellows is important because management of herbicide and eriophyid mite damaged plants does not require plant removal.

How do I avoid problems with aster yellows in the future? 

Some herbaceous plants (e.g., geraniums and impatiens), as well as most woody ornamentals, are not susceptible to aster yellows.  Therefore these plants should be used in areas where aster yellows is a problem.  In landscape settings, attempts to control aster leafhoppers as a means of controlling aster yellows are typically not effective and are not recommended.

For more information on aster yellows: 

Contact the University of Wisconsin Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic (PDDC) at (608) 262-2863 or pddc@wisc.edu.

This Fact Sheet is also available in PDF format:

© 2001-2024 the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System doing business as University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.

An EEO/Affirmative Action employer, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming, including Title IX and ADA requirements. This document can be provided in an alternative format by calling Brian Hudelson at (608) 262-2863 (711 for Wisconsin Relay).

Thanks to Lisa Johnson, Ann Joy and Ann Wied for reviewing this document.

A complete inventory of UW Plant Disease Facts is available at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic website: https://pddc.wisc.edu.

Submit additional lawn, landscape, and gardening questions at https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/ask-a-gardening-question/.

Disease - Broad Leafed Woody Ornamental

Ash Yellows

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UW Plant Disease Facts

 

Authors:  Jim Olis* and Brian Hudelson, UW-Madison Plant Pathology
Last Revised:   02/28/2024
D-number:   D0006

What is ash yellows? 

Ash yellows is a chronic, systemic disease that affects ash trees of all ages.  White ash is particularly susceptible to ash yellows.  Ash yellows likely occurs wherever ash is grown and has been reported widely in the United States and southern Canada.  The organism that causes ash yellows also causes a disease called lilac witches’-broom.

Brooming symptoms in an ash tree caused by ash yellows.
Brooming symptoms in an ash tree caused by ash yellows.

What does ash yellows look like? 

Symptoms of ash yellows usually occur within three years of infection.  Infected trees typically grow at a much slower rate than non-infected trees, although this may be difficult to detect in an isolated, single tree.  The rate of growth of an infected tree may be as little as one half that of a healthy tree.  Leaves on infected trees are frequently smaller, thinner and lighter green than normal.  Often, but not always, affected trees will produce branches in tufts, a symptom that is called “brooming”.  Eventually, branches in the crown will die and this dieback can continue until the entire crown is dead.

Where does ash yellows come from? 

Ash yellows is caused by the phytoplasma, Candidatus Phytoplasma fraxini.  Phytoplasmas are bacteria-like organisms that live and survive in the phloem (the food-conducting tissue) of infected plants.  Leafhoppers are thought to be the primary means by which this pathogen is moved from tree to tree.

How do I save a tree with ash yellows? 

There is no known cure for ash yellows, but some infected trees may live and grow slowly with the disease for many years.  Ash trees suspected of having ash yellows should be tested for the disease, and those trees that test positive should be removed immediately to prevent spread of the ash yellows phytoplasma to other trees in the area.  Wood harvested from infected trees does not serve as a source of the phytoplasma and can be used for woodworking or firewood, or chipped for mulch.

How do I avoid problems with ash yellows in the future? 

Avoid growing ash trees in areas where ash yellows is prevalent.  When choosing a lilac, select a variety of common lilac as these varieties appear to have tolerance to the ash yellows phytoplasma.  Avoid using S. josikaea, S. reticulata and S. sweginzowii (or hybrids of these species with either S. komarowii or S. villosa), as these lilacs appear to be highly susceptible.  It is unclear if the use of insecticides (or other means) to control leafhoppers can help control the spread of this pathogen.

For more information on ash yellows and ash yellows testing: 

Contact the University of Wisconsin Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic (PDDC) at (608) 262-2863 or pddc@wisc.edu.

This Fact Sheet is also available in PDF format:

*Completed as partial fulfillment of the requirements for a BS in Plant Pathology at the University of Wisconsin Madison.

© 2001-2024 the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System doing business as University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension.

An EEO/Affirmative Action employer, University of Wisconsin-Madison Division of Extension provides equal opportunities in employment and programming, including Title IX and ADA requirements. This document can be provided in an alternative format by calling Brian Hudelson at (608) 262-2863 (711 for Wisconsin Relay).

References to pesticide products in this publication are for your convenience and are not an endorsement or criticism of one product over similar products. You are responsible for using pesticides according to the manufacturer’s current label directions. Follow directions exactly to protect the environment and people from pesticide exposure. Failure to do so violates the law.

Thanks to Lis Friemoth, Ann Joy and Patti Nagai for reviewing this document.

A complete inventory of UW Plant Disease Facts is available at the University of Wisconsin-Madison Plant Disease Diagnostics Clinic website: https://pddc.wisc.edu.

Submit additional lawn, landscape, and gardening questions at https://hort.extension.wisc.edu/ask-a-gardening-question/.