Eastern Filbert Blight: The Deadly Disease Affecting Hazelnut Trees
Hazelnuts, also known as filberts, are a popular crop among farmers worldwide. They're used in various food products, such as chocolate spreads and pralines. However, the hazelnut industry is threatened by Eastern Filbert Blight (EFB) - an aggressive fungal disease that can cause significant damage to hazelnut trees. In this article, we'll take a closer look at EFB and discuss its impact on the hazelnut industry.
What is Eastern Filbert Blight?
Eastern Filbert Blight is a fungal disease that targets hazelnut trees. It's caused by the fungus Anisogramma anomala, which attacks the branches of the tree and causes them to die back. EFB was first discovered in the eastern United States in the 1940s but has since spread to other parts of the world, including Europe and Asia.
The disease is most severe in warm and humid climates, making it a significant threat to hazelnut producers in these regions. EFB can reduce hazelnut yields by up to 90%, making it a costly problem for farmers.
Symptoms of Eastern Filbert Blight
The symptoms of EFB can vary depending on the severity of the infection. In the early stages of the disease, infected branches may show small, raised bumps called cankers. As the disease progresses, the cankers will enlarge and become sunken with a reddish-brown discoloration. Infected branches may also produce small, black fruiting bodies called perithecia.
As the disease continues to spread, the infected branches will die back, causing significant damage to the tree. Leaves on infected branches may wilt and turn yellow, and the nuts may be misshapen or fail to mature properly.
How Does Eastern Filbert Blight Spread?
EFB spreads primarily through spores produced by the fungus. These spores can be transported by wind, rain, or insects, allowing the disease to spread rapidly from one tree to another. EFB can also be spread through infected plant material, including pruning debris and nursery stock.
Once a tree is infected with EFB, the disease may lay dormant for several years before symptoms begin to appear. This makes it challenging to control the disease effectively.
Preventing and Controlling Eastern Filbert Blight
Preventing EFB is the most effective way to control the disease. Farmers should use healthy, disease-free planting stock and avoid planting hazelnut trees in areas where the disease is prevalent. Trees should be spaced adequately to promote good air circulation, and pruning should be done during dry weather to minimize the risk of spreading the disease.
If a tree does become infected with EFB, it's essential to remove the infected branches promptly. Infected branches should be pruned back to healthy tissue, and all pruning debris should be burned or buried to prevent the spread of the disease.
Fungicides can also be used to control EFB, although their effectiveness can vary depending on the severity of the infection. Fungicides should be applied preventively during the growing season to protect against new infections.
The Impact of Eastern Filbert Blight on the Hazelnut Industry
The hazelnut industry has been severely impacted by EFB. In the United States, Oregon produces over 99% of the nation's hazelnuts, making it the largest producer in the country. However, EFB has caused significant damage to Oregon's hazelnut orchards, reducing yields and increasing production costs.
In Turkey, which is the world's largest producer of hazelnuts, EFB has led to a decline in production. Hazelnut prices have also increased due to the reduced supply, making it more challenging for consumers to afford hazelnut products.
Eastern Filbert Blight is a severe threat to the hazelnut industry, causing significant damage to trees and reducing yields. Preventing and controlling the disease is essential to protect hazelnut crops and maintain the sustainability of the industry. By following best practices, such as using healthy planting stock and practicing good pruning techniques, farmers can help prevent the spread of EFB and ensure the continued success of the hazelnut industry.
Post a Comment for "Eastern Filbert Blight: The Deadly Disease Affecting Hazelnut Trees"