On Saturday 2nd May 2009 I did a systematic orchard walk looking for wood affected by apple canker. Blossom time is good to do this as the leafless dead or dying wood is easier seen by contrast with living wood that is carrying new leaves and blossom. Later in the season it is harder to see again as the new leaves cover it up.

Cut back to clean wood just above a growing point, remove the affected wood and burn. Do not leave it lying around asn the spores may become ariborne, do not add to a compost heap. Use dried prunings to make a good hot fire. Look out for it the rest of the year too and operate a zero tolerance policy- 'A seen canker is a gone canker'

свернуть