Non-Chemical Management
- Plant resistant species. For example, Crataegus phaenopyrum (Washington thorn) is reported to be resistant to fire blight.
- Immediately prune out and destroy infected tissues. Make pruning cuts at least 6" below infected tissues and sterilize tools between cuts. Do not do regular pruning at the same time as blight removal.
- Avoid wounding plants.
- Use moderate amounts of nitrogen fertilizer to minimize susceptible shoot growth.
Select non-chemical management options as your first choice!