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leaf, and defoliation of the tree. Defoliation from rust can lead to tree damage. Rust is moisture dependent.Monitor orchards fromMay 1 through July 15. Randomly choose 40 trees, examine each one for the presence of rust symptoms on leaves, and check low-hang- ing branches.Also monitor nonbearing replants in the orchard, trees with vigorous growth and known rust hot spots. Monitor the weather for rain events, along with humidity in the orchard, and treat at the first sign of rust with a fungicide application to limit the amount of spread. Additional treat- ments may be necessary, especially if a treat- ment was required early in the season. After a treatment is applied, continue to monitor weekly or twice monthly. This year, especially with problems such as rust, monitor for them and make applications when needed, rather than being overly aggres- sive. It might be better to sacrifice a few leaves and save some money.
Prunes are just finishing bloom and fruit is starting to size, making water manage- ment critical. Water stress, especially as it begins to get hot in May, can cause fruit to drop. It’s important to ensure the trees have ample irrigation to mitigate against Cytospora canker, a problem commonly as- sociated with sunburn. Wilting or flagging of a branch is an indica- tion of Cytospora canker.The canker eventually girdles the branch, causing it to die later in the season. It’s a problem that occurs year after year and can largely be prevented with sound irrigation and nutrient management. Growers should also be on the lookout for rust. That can be a big problem. It’s important to manage the disease to keep it from becom- ing epidemic, because unchecked, it can defo- liate the trees and increase stress. The most common symptoms of rust are bright yellow spots on the leaves, with red- brown spore masses on the lower sides of the
P E S T C O N T R O L A D V I S O R
What are steps to protect prunes from diseases?
Mateo Marquez, PCA, Integral Ag Services, Durham
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24 Ag Alert April 13, 2022
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