Question
Hi, would you be able to tell me how best to remove my poor tree, it's too overcome, there is blight everywhere, we've had a very wet spring/early summer and I didn't know enough to manage it, if I could. Now sadly it needs to come down. Is there any chance if I took it down at the base that it might grow back new and be healthy?? Or it's more likely the disease has spread too far? There are still a few healthy looking branches, but then a new shoot with blight. I've probably answered my question...

To remove safely, so there is no disease left, what do I need to do? there are no other fruit trees in the immediate vicinity.

thank you!
June

Answer
If the tree is a grafted variety cutting below the graft union will produce suckers of the rootstock which is probably not edible.  I would cut the tree down completely and stump grind.  Then, if you plant a new tree in the same place, be prepared to spray with streptomycin sulfate each spring when buds begin to break.  This will help prevent the fire blight.  I am sorry for the trouble you are having.  I hope this info helps you make some decisions.  Good Luck.