Bacterial Canker

You'll spot sunken, oozing cankers on tree limbs that develop in spring, with small lesions on nearby leaves showing disease progression. This bacterial disease travels readily by rain splash and pruning wounds that provide entry points. Remove affected branches well below the visible canker margin, sterilizing all tools between cuts to prevent further spread. Avoid planting susceptible species in contaminated areas. Proper pruning technique during dry weather and tool sanitation are essential for control.

Sanitation measures have been helpful. Plant resistant cultivars. Prune affected branches well below visible symptoms and sterilize tools between cuts. Avoid pruning during wet weather, which spreads the pathogen through fresh wounds. Maintain plant vigor through proper watering and site management.