Fire Blight

What is it?

Fire blight (Erwinia amylovora) is a bacterial disease native to North America. It infects trees and shrubs in the rose family, including crabapple, apple, mountain ash, hawthorn, cotoneaster, raspberry, and saskatoon. Fire blight is a serious plant disease that can cause considerable damage and death.  It is a controlled pest in Alberta, so homeowners are responsible for control of fire blight on their plants. The most common sign is a branch of wilted, bronze-coloured leaves.

 Alberta Contolled Pest Fact Sheet

How does it spread?

Pollinating bees and other insects, birds, rain and wind spread the bacteria.

What can I do?

Homeowners can control fire blight by:

1. Carefully pruning out sick wood at least 46 cm (18 in) below the infection,

2. Sterilizing pruning tools between every cut, and

3. Disposing of the diseased wood, not using it for mulch, compost or storing as firewood.