Prévention et Solutions Commerciales

European pear canker, caused by the fungus Neonectria ditissima , is a major fungal threat to orchards in France. This disease attacks the bark, branches, and, in some cases, the fruit, compromising tree health and production. This article explores in detail the symptoms, factors that promote disease development, and available prevention and treatment strategies. Finally, discover how Arboriverse, a supplier of quality fruit plants, can help you renew your plantations.


Symptoms of European Canker

On the bark

  • Concave brown spots: The first visible lesions appear on the trunk and branches, marking the beginning of the infection.
  • Deformations and cracks: The bark swells and cracks, making the tree more vulnerable to secondary attacks.

Under the bark

  • Tissue necrosis: The fungus destroys internal tissues, blocking the flow of sap.
  • Appearance of gummosis: Some cankers secrete a golden gum, a characteristic defense reaction of infected pear trees.

On leaves and fruits

  • Premature yellowing: Leaves fall prematurely, a sign of a weakened tree.
  • Poor quality fruit: Reduced size and deformed or altered appearance.

Factors Favoring the Development of European Canker

  • Wounds: Wounds caused by pruning tools, winter frosts, insects or agricultural machinery serve as entry points for spores.
  • Climatic Conditions: The fungus thrives in humid environments and cool temperatures, especially in spring and autumn.
  • Tree stress: Trees that are malnourished or suffering from water stress are particularly susceptible.
  • Susceptible varieties: Some pear varieties are more susceptible to infection.

Life Cycle of Neonectria ditissima

  • Overwintering: The fungus survives in cankers and plant debris on trees or on the ground.
  • Spore Spread: In spring and fall, spores are dispersed by wind and rain, infecting wounds or vulnerable tissues.
  • Infection: Once established, spores proliferate rapidly, forming new cankers and continuing the cycle.

Prevention of European Canker

Choose resistant varieties

Choose pear trees that are less susceptible to canker, offered by specialist suppliers such as Arboriverse.

Protect against injury

  • Suitable pruning techniques: Prune branches only in dry weather to avoid infections.
  • Healing Putty: Apply it to pruning wounds to prevent spores from entering.

Maintaining orchard hygiene

  • Disinfect your tools after each use.
  • Remove and destroy infected branches.

Promote ventilation

Optimal spacing between trees improves air circulation and reduces humidity.

Apply preventive treatments

Use copper-based fungicides in the fall, after the leaves have fallen.


Biological Treatments

Pruning infected branches

Remove affected branches by cutting at least 10 cm into healthy wood. Always disinfect your tools after each cut.

Fungicide products authorized in organic farming

  • Copper: Ideal for preventing spore proliferation.
  • Potassium Bicarbonate: Provides limited natural protection.

Strengthening natural defenses

Spray horsetail or nettle extracts to improve the resilience of pear trees.


Conventional Treatments

Systemic fungicides

Strobilurins and IBS (Sterol Biosynthesis Inhibitors): These products are recommended for their curative effectiveness.

Processing Schedule

In spring: Treat at the first visible signs. In autumn: Apply a preventative treatment after the leaves have fallen.


Economic Impact of European Canker

  • Loss of productivity: Infected trees see their growth reduced and their yield significantly impacted.
  • Replacement Costs: Without prompt management, canker can kill trees, resulting in additional costs for replacement.

Business Solutions with Arboriverse

As a supplier of fruit plants, Arboriverse is here to help you restore your orchards and prevent future losses.

Why choose Arboriverse?

  • Professional quality fruit trees: Our plants are produced by specialized nurseries.
  • Wide range of varieties: Canker-resistant pear trees, suitable for all environments.
  • Direct producer prices: Competitive solutions for your operation.
  • Custom delivery: Anywhere in France, directly to your orchard.

Our services

  • Free quotes within 48 hours: Quick assessment of your needs.
  • Personalized technical support: Expert advice to plant your plants in optimal conditions.
  • Optimized logistics: Fast and careful delivery to guarantee the quality of the plants.

Our flagship products

  • Resistant grafted pear trees: Available in bare roots, pots or scions.
  • Specialized rootstocks: Guaranteed for robust and perennial orchards.
  • Solutions tailored to professionals: Whether you are a tree grower or a diversified market gardener, we have what you need.

FAQ

What are the first symptoms of European canker?

Brown, sunken spots on the bark, accompanied by gummosis, are warning signs.

Can disease be prevented without fungicide?

Yes, by maintaining good orchard hygiene, disinfecting tools and applying healing putty to wounds.

Are organic fungicides effective?

They offer limited protection. Copper-based products remain the most effective in organic farming.

When to treat European chancre?

Apply curative fungicides at the first symptoms in spring, and preventatives in fall.

Does Arboriverse offer solutions suitable for professional orchards?

Absolutely. We provide professional-quality grafted plants and personalized technical advice.

How to choose resistant varieties?

Check out our catalog to discover robust varieties, tested against European canker.


Renew your Orchards with Arboriverse

Protect your farm from European canker and ensure the sustainability of your crops. Contact Arboriverse today for tailor-made solutions tailored to your needs.