Xylella Fastidiosa Peach Control: How To Treat Phony Peach Disease In Plants
Peach trees that are showing reduced fruit size and overall growth may be infected with peach Xylella fastidiosa, or phony peach disease (PPD). What’s phony peach disease in plants? Read on to learn about recognizing the symptoms of Xylella fastidiosa on peach trees and control of this disease.
What is Phony Peach Disease?
As its name indicates, Xylella fastidiosa on peach trees is a fastidious bacterium. It lives in the plant’s xylem tissue and is spread by sharpshooter leafhoppers. X. fastidiosa, also referred to as bacterial leaf scorch, is widespread in the southeastern United States but can also be found in California, southern Ontario, and into the southern Midwestern states. Strains of the bacterium also cause various diseases in grapes, citrus, almond, coffee, elm, oak, oleander, pear, and sycamore trees.
Symptoms of Peach Xylella fastidiosa
Phony peach disease in plants was first observed in the South around 1890 on infected trees that bloomed several days earlier than their healthy counterparts. These infected trees also held onto their leaves later into the fall. By early June, infected trees appear more compact, leafier, and a darker green than uninfected trees. This is because the twigs have shortened internodes and increased lateral branching. Overall, PPD results in lower quality and yields with fruit drastically smaller than average. If a tree is infected prior to bearing age, it will never produce. Over the course of several years, infected tree wood becomes brittle.
Xylella fastidiosa Peach Control
Prune out or remove any diseased trees and destroy any wild plums that are growing nearby; June and July are the best times to observe symptoms of PPD. Control weeds near and around the trees to limit habitat for the leafhoppers and the bacterium. Also, avoid pruning during the summer months, as this will encourage new growth that leafhoppers like to feed on.
Gardening tips, videos, info and more delivered right to your inbox!
Sign up for the Gardening Know How newsletter today and receive a free download of our most popular eBook "How to Grow Delicious Tomatoes."
Amy Grant has been gardening for 30 years and writing for 15. A professional chef and caterer, Amy's area of expertise is culinary gardening.
-
How Often To Water Orchids – The Definitive Guide
Orchids are too often victims of under and over-watering. Discover how often popular species need to be watered and the key signs to look for.
By Amy Grant
-
5 Fast-Growing Intercrops To Max Out Your Vegetable Garden
Even the smallest gardens can have mighty growing potential. These delicious intercrops are quick and easy to grow and will make your veg plot more productive.
By Amy Grant