Blueberry Scorch Disease

Abstract

Scorch is a viral disease that is a considerable threat to New York blueberry (Vaccinium spp.) production. Caused by Blueberry scorch virus (BlScV), the disease is spread through clonal propagation of infected plant material and by aphids. There is no cure once plants become infected and no blueberry variety is immune, though some are tolerant to the virus. Scorch results in stunted bushes with chlorotic, brown-tipped leaves, twig dieback and flower death. Infected plants typically yield poorly, both in quantity and quality of fruit. The best control measure is to rogue infected bushes and establish plants derived from clean, certified virus-tested planting stock.