Pear Powdery Mildew: Prevent, Identify and Treat Effectively

Pear powdery mildew, caused by the fungus Podosphaera leucotricha , significantly affects fruit productivity and quality. This fungal disease, well-known to growers, requires constant vigilance to protect orchards and maintain high yields. This article explores the symptoms, conditions that favor its development, as well as preventive and curative methods, while offering a suitable business solution to overcome losses thanks to Arboriverse, an expert supplier of fruit plants.


Symptoms of Pear Powdery Mildew

Appearance of a white, floury felting

One of the first visible signs is a grayish-white felting on leaves, shoots, and buds. This powdery appearance is a typical indicator of the presence of the fungus.

Deformations of leaves and shoots

In cases of severe infestation, leaves and shoots become deformed, compromising their growth and reducing their photosynthetic capacity. This directly affects the vitality of the tree.

Affected buds and fruits

The buds slow down their development or abort. The fruits, meanwhile, show superficial cracks or deformations, making their marketing difficult, if not impossible.


Powdery Mildew Life Cycle

Wintering forms

The fungus survives the winter in the form of spores or mycelia hidden in the bud scales.

Resumption in spring

As soon as the buds burst, the primary spores cause the first infections, often visible on young leaves.

Seasonal spread

Throughout the season, secondary spores spread, causing successive attacks and intensifying the damage.


Factors Favoring Powdery Mildew

  • Moderate humidity and mild temperatures: Powdery mildew prefers relatively dry conditions and temperatures between 15 and 25°C.
  • Excess nitrogen: Fertilization rich in nitrogen promotes the growth of tender tissues, which are particularly vulnerable to fungal attack.
  • Lack of ventilation: Dense or poorly ventilated plantings create ideal microclimates for the development of the fungus.

Prevention against Powdery Mildew

Choice of site and cultivation practices

Promote well-ventilated areas to reduce stagnant moisture. Maintain adequate tree spacing to improve air circulation.

Orchard management

  • Remove infected twigs and leaves to limit the spread of spores.
  • Clean up plant debris after harvest to reduce fungal pressure.

Balanced fertilization

  • Reduce excessive nitrogen inputs.
  • Choose amendments rich in potassium to strengthen the resistance of trees.

Biological Treatments

Application of sulfur

Sulfur acts as a contact fungicide, preventing spore germination. Use it regularly, especially:

  • During flowering.
  • In the early stages of fruit development.

Natural products

  • Plant purines: Horsetail or nettle extracts boost the natural defenses of pear trees.
  • Essential Oils: Neem oil, although effective, should be used with caution to avoid any phytotoxic effects.

Mycopesticides

Products containing microorganisms such as Bacillus subtilis can inhibit the growth of pathogenic fungi.


Conventional Treatments

Systemic and contact fungicides

Systemic fungicides penetrate the tree tissues, providing long-lasting protection. Sulfur compounds can be used in addition to enhance their effectiveness.

Integrated strategies

Combine chemical treatments with preventative measures such as pruning and debris management to minimize environmental impact.


Economic Impact of Powdery Mildew

Infections affect photosynthesis and slow fruit growth, leading to a significant decline in harvests. Fruit affected by cracking or deformation does not meet market requirements. Expenses related to plant protection products and labor represent an economic burden for producers.


Business Solutions with Arboriverse

Faced with losses caused by powdery mildew, Arboriverse, a specialist in quality fruit plants, offers solutions to revive your orchards.

Why choose Arboriverse?

  • Wide choice of suitable plants: Resistant varieties and grafted plants ready for planting.
  • Professional quality guaranteed: Our plants are produced by specialized nurseries.
  • Competitive prices: Direct offers at producer prices for better profitability.
  • Fast and reliable delivery: Directly to your plot, anywhere in France.

Our Services

  • Free quotes within 48 hours: Quick and personalized assessment of your needs.
  • Technical advice: Support from experts for the management of your orchards.
  • Flexible delivery options: Delivery adapted to your logistical constraints.

Our Products

  • Grafted pear trees: Half-stem, high-stem, or bare-root.
  • Specialized rootstocks: Disease resistant and adapted to your local conditions.
  • Diversified fruit plants: To strengthen or diversify your crops.

FAQ

What are the first symptoms of powdery mildew?

A white, floury coating appears on young leaves and shoots.

Can powdery mildew be prevented without chemicals?

Yes, through cultural practices such as pruning, tree spacing and balanced fertilization.

When to treat powdery mildew with sulfur?

During flowering and early fruit development.

Why does excess nitrogen promote powdery mildew?

It promotes the growth of tender tissues, which are more vulnerable to infections.

What services does Arboriverse offer to arborists?

Quality fruit plants, dedicated technical service, and fast delivery throughout France.


Relaunch your Orchards with Arboriverse

Don't let powdery mildew compromise your production. Contact Arboriverse today for a free quote and discover our solutions for establishing or strengthening your orchards.