Päärynäpahkaudelle

Päärynäpahkaudelle, a Finnish term, translates to pear scab in English. It is a common fungal disease that affects pear trees. The causative agent is the fungus Venturia pyrina. This disease primarily targets the fruit of the pear tree, but can also infect leaves and twigs.

Symptoms of päärynäpahkaudelle typically appear as small, olive-green spots on the surface of young pears. As the disease progresses, these spots enlarge, darken, and may develop a velvety texture. In severe cases, the spots can coalesce, forming larger lesions that crack and distort the fruit. Infected leaves may show similar spots, which can lead to premature leaf drop. Twig infections can result in cankers and reduced tree vigor.

The fungus overwinters in fallen leaves and infected twigs. Spores are released in the spring and spread by rain and wind, infecting new growth. Cool, wet weather conditions are particularly conducive to the development and spread of the disease.

Management of päärynäpahkaudelle involves a combination of cultural practices and chemical treatments. Removing infected fallen leaves and pruning out diseased twigs during the dormant season can help reduce the inoculum. Resistant pear varieties can also be planted to minimize risk. Fungicide applications, timed appropriately throughout the growing season, are often necessary to control outbreaks, especially in areas with a history of the disease. Early detection and intervention are key to preventing significant crop loss.