The rains forecast for Thursday-Sunday June 1-4 will bring the final ascospore release at Highmoor Farm and vicinity.  This could also be the most severe primary scab infection potential of the year.  In addition, lesions from previous infection periods have now had time to provide conidia to spread secondary scab infections.

         If fungicide protection has not been renewed since Sunday May 28, renewing coverage before the expected start of the rain mid-day Thursday would be required to provide protection through the June 1-4 showers.  Otherwise, a postinfection fungicide application may be necessary.

 

 Fire blight     Any young trees that are putting out delayed blossoms should be de-blossomed before the rain on Thursday, as that rain is following several warm-hot days and could bring with it fire blight infection potential.