Issue link: http://read.dmtmag.com/i/108963
Three blossoms in the center show the start of fireblight infection. Photos courtesy of Ken Johnson. An advanced fireblight infection, on apple. ���This is some of the first data I���ve seen that shows that coppers can have an effect.��� High Potency CYD-X�� HP ���Ken Johnson colonizer (Blossom-Protect), and an antibiotic substitute (Serenade Max, also known as Optiva). Application timing for biologicals is early bloom. Stigma colonizers (BlightBan A506 and Bloomtime Biological) are bacteria that grow on the stigma and prevent the pathogen from growing. Both products are beneficial when applied up to full bloom, but are not much value after that, he says. Blossom-Protect is an aggressive yeast that colonizes the stigma, flowers, and floral cup���just about everywhere, he said. Research on apples found 200 fireblight strikes per tree in the water control, and 10 strikes per tree with Blossom-Protect. ���It works really well,��� Johnson said, adding that he believes it will have a good fit with organic programs, especially if the use of antibiotics is prohibited as expected by the National Organic Standards Board. ���We found the yeast growing all over the nectaries, making a biofilm on them. It���s a really aggressive biological agent, and it hangs around everywhere, even on the calyx in mid-June.��� However, a drawback for the yeast could be a potential for russeting in pears if there is wet weather at bloom. He has seen some russeting in OSU fireblight trials in Corvallis, but they are orchards where he also has a problem with apple scab. ���I don���t think you���ll see russeting in Washington or Oregon where you don���t get apple scab,��� he said, adding that Washington State University Extension educator Tim Smith has not had a problem with russet in his trials with the yeast product. ���But Tim also hasn���t seen apple scab for 20 years. If you don���t get apple scab, then you probably won���t get russeting in pears from Blossom-Protect.��� Serenade Max (a new version is coming called Optiva), works as an antimicrobial www.goodfruit.com The most potent codling moth virus...ever. CYD-X HP codling moth granulosis virus. Powerful. Versatile. Easy to use. OMRI�� Listed and NOP Approved. For conventional or organic farming. Residue exempt. Four-hour reentry interval (REI) and zero plant harvest interval (PHI). No effect on bene���cial insects. Devastating to codling moth larvae. ] [ �� 2013 Certis USA www.CertisUSA.com GOOD FRUIT GROWER FEBRUARY 15, 2013 9