Pest & Disease Eastern filbert blight

Eastern filbert blight

Anisogramma anomala

What is Eastern filbert blight (Anisogramma anomala)?

Eastern filbert blight is a highly destructive fungal disease caused by Anisogramma anomala, primarily affecting European hazelnut trees (Corylus avellana) and their cultivars. It is commonly known as filbert. Symptoms include twig and shoot blight, canker formation with black fruiting bodies, nut discoloration and shriveling, and leaf lesions. The disease can cause significant damage to nuts and lead to defoliation.

How does Eastern filbert blight (Anisogramma anomala) occur?

The disease spreads when it rains, releasing infective ascospores. In western Oregon, this mostly happens during winter and early spring, continuing into mid-to-late spring when new shoots grow. The ascospores are carried by rain and wind, mainly in the direction of the wind. Infections occur when temperatures are between 8 and 25°C and humidity is high for 24 to 72 hours. The fungus enters the tree's phloem, cambium, and outer xylem layers, causing cankers to form along branches. The pathogen, A. anomala, doesn't have resting structures and relies on living plants to survive.

Symptoms

1 - Impact on Plants

• Eastern filbert blight can result in significant decline and eventual death of infected hazelnut trees if not effectively managed. • Infected trees may experience reduced nut production and lower-quality nuts, affecting the economic viability of hazelnut orchards. • The disease can lead to stunted growth, dieback of branches, and overall weakening of the tree's health and vigor.

2 - Soil Health

• The decomposition of infected trees contributes to nutrient cycling. Pathogens can persist in soil, affecting subsequent plantings.

3 - Environmental Consequences

Anisogramma anomala cases reduction in tree populations affects plant diversity. Impacts hazelnut production and related industries.

Solutions

1 - Preventions

• Planting resistant cultivars that are specifically bred to withstand the disease. • Regularly inspecting hazelnut trees for symptoms and promptly pruning and removing infected branches and cankers. • Practicing good orchard sanitation by removing fallen leaves and debris to minimize the spread of fungal spores. • Implementing cultural practices to optimize tree health, including proper nutrition, irrigation, and sunlight.

2 - Biological Control

• Aviv (Bacillus subtilis strain IAB/BS03) • Botector (Aureobasidium pullulans strains DSM 14940 and 14941) • Serenade OPTI (Bacillus subtilis strain QST 713) • Serenade Garden Disease Control Concentrate.

3 - Resistance cultivars

• Some hazelnut cultivars resistant to Eastern Filbert Blight (EFB) include 'Gasaway,' 'Yamhill,' 'Jefferson,' and 'McDonald.' • These cultivars offer a valuable means of managing EFB, although regular monitoring and proper orchard management are still essential.

4 - Fungicide Applications

• There are different fungicides that can be used to control the disease. Some examples include Chlorothalonil, copper-based fungicides (like copper hydroxide and copper sulfate), and triazole fungicides (such as tebuconazole and propiconazole). These fungicides may be available under various brand names like Abound, Bravo Weather Stik, Cabrio EG, and many others. • It's essential to consider your location and local regulations as fungicide availability and recommendations may vary.

FAQ

Do shade growing plants need any Sunlight?

Shade growing plants do need sunlight, although they require less than other plants. They need some direct sunlight each morning to help them photosynthesize and grow properly. Also, indirect sunlight throughout the day helps them stay healthy. Shade growing plants will benefit from the sunshine, but if they get too much or too little, then they can suffer the consequences. It's important to pay attention to the needs of your plants so that you can provide them with the proper light for optimal growth.

How often should you water indoor plants?

Indoor plants should be watered when the soil feels dry to a depth of about two inches, usually about once a week. A helpful technique to determine your plants' watering needs is to feel the soil before and after watering to get a sense of how long it takes to dry out. An important note to remember is that some plants require less water than others, and it's best to research the specific needs of your individual plants. Likewise, if your home is very dry, you might need to water more often as the lack of moisture can stress the plants and lead to problems like brown leaves and wilted stems.

Can my monstera plant get root rot?

Yes, a plant can get root rot. Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by over-watering, poor soil drainage, or high humidity levels in the air. Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting and stunted growth, and damaged or browning root systems. Sometimes it is difficult to detect root rot until the plant is removed from the soil, as the problems are mainly below the soil surface. Treating root rot usually involves removing the affected parts of the plant and replanting the unaffected ones.

Can I put my Monstera outside in summer?

No, you should not put your Monstera outside in summer. Monstera plants need warm, humid air to thrive, and direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. Instead, put your Monstera in a bright, sunny spot with indirect light, making sure the sun never directly hits the leaves. During the summer, keep your Monstera's soil damp and mist it occasionally to keep the leaves hydrated. At nighttime, keep the temperature around 16 - 21°C (60 - 70°F). You can definitely take your Monstera outdoors for short periods of time, just make sure to bring it back in if it starts to get too hot.

What happens if my monstera plant gets too cold?

If your monstera plant gets too cold, it will become vulnerable to pests, disease, or other damage. Cold temperatures can damage the leaves of the plant, causing them to become spotted or limp. The roots of monstera plants may also suffer in cold temperatures, leading to root rot or other diseases. Belonging to the tropical family, monsteras are used to warm environments and do not do well in cold temperatures, so it is important to ensure your plant is kept in conditions that suit their needs.

Is it possible to grow a vegetable garden in a small space?

Yes, it is possible to grow a vegetable garden in a small space. Gardening in a small space can be as simple as growing a few containerized plants in pots and raised beds, or as elaborate as vertically stacking planters, hanging pouches, and hanging baskets on a wall, railing, or fence. Regardless of the size of the space you are working with, some simple techniques such as companion planting, organic fertilizers, and water conservation can help you get the most out of your small vegetable garden.

Is peppermint herb green good for digestion?

Peppermint herb is indeed beneficial for digestion. The flavonoids in the herb support digestion by reducing inflammation in the digestive track, aiding in digestion and relieving indigestion, heartburn, and even the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, peppermint is naturally rich in menthol, which helps to relax the muscles of the stomach, aiding in the digestion of food. Peppermint herb can be consumed in a variety of forms, such as teas, tinctures and capsules, as well as by adding the herb to food or directly to water or tea.

Should peppermint herb green be consumed daily?

No, peppermint herb green should not be consumed daily. This is because it contains high levels of menthol, which can be toxic if taken in large doses. Additionally, consuming large amounts of peppermint herb green could interfere with the absorption of essential minerals and vitamins, potentially causing vitamin deficiencies. For these reasons, it is best to consult with a doctor before incorporating peppermint herb green into your daily diet.