Fire blight, caused by Erwinia amylovora, devastates pome fruit trees globally. In Ireland, where apple and pear orchards are vital to agriculture, it threatens crop yields and industry sustainability. This brief covers fire blight’s impact, symptoms, management, and regulations.
It causes economic losses through yield reduction, quality decline, and tree death, impacting farmers and the economy. Symptoms include wilting, blackening, and blossom blight. The disease spreads rapidly via rain, wind, insects, and tools.
Management involves cultural practices, biological agents, and chemical control. Regulatory measures include strict import regulations and surveillance.
Collaboration between agencies, research institutions, and stakeholders is crucial for effective prevention and management. Integrated pest management approaches are essential for mitigating fire blight’s impact on Ireland’s orchards and horticultural industry.
References:
Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) Ireland
Teagasc
