Fire Blight on Chanticleer Pear: Identification and Management

Fire Blight on Chanticleer Pear Trees

If your newly planted Chanticleer pear tree develops black, clammy leaves that appear in clusters at branch tips, you may be dealing with fire blight, a bacterial disease common in the rose family. This disease thrives after cool, wet springs and can spread rapidly.

Symptoms

Look for groups of brown or black leaves, often at the ends of branches. The affected foliage may appear wilted and "clammy" to the touch.

Treatment Options

Antibiotic sprays (such as streptomycin) are effective only during bloom. Once symptoms appear, the best course is to prune out infected branches, cutting at least 12 inches below visible damage. Sterilize pruning tools between cuts.

Prevention

Choose fire blight-resistant cultivars when planting. Avoid excessive nitrogen fertilization, which promotes succulent growth susceptible to infection. For detailed guidance, refer to the University of Arkansas Extension bulletin FSA-7534.