Survey of Blueberry Canker and Dieback Diseases in New York Plantings

Abstract

Canker diseases are challenging to manage since management relies exclusively on proper pruning and plant health maintenance. Knowing which of the canker fungi are prevalent in NY blueberry plantings will allow growers to improve IPM practices aimed at maintaining plant health. A survey was begun to ascertain which canker fungi are most common. On seven farms surveyed, Fusicoccum canker was found to be more prevalent than Phomopsis canker. Botryosphaeria canker was found for the first time in NY. Other diseases that impact blueberry production in New York were also found and included mummy berry, Botrytis blight, and micronutrient deficiency. Two nematode-transmitted, soil-born viruses, tomato ringspot virus and tobacco ringspot virus, were found in one planting. This work will be continued and expanded into other regions of NY.