Blight

Total Score=60

Definition

Any disease, symptom of disease or injury of plants that results in withering, cessation of growth and general death of plant leaves, flowers or stems. These symptoms are caused by fungi or bacteria, viruses, unfavorable climactic conditions or insect attack.

Background

There are sixty-eight (68) different types of blight. The more common types are the Potato Blight, Dutch Elm Disease, American Chestnut Tree Blight, Apple Scab, and Gypsy Moth Infestation.

Poland has a number of farms that may experience a problem with blight.

History

Potato Blight is the most common of the aforementioned. Before the use of fungicides some 40 years ago, a serious blight would occur about once every five year period that would destroy all potato crops.

There has been no serious problem in the past 35 years due to extensive use of fungicides. Since warm, wet and humid weather is the predominating factor in an outbreak of potato blight, some minor signs of the plant disease are noted about seven to ten days after a major summer storm.

Dutch Elm Disease has destroyed almost all major Elm growths within Poland within the past 85 years.

American Chestnut Trees were all destroyed in all of New England about 30 years ago.

Apple Scab is an annual occurrence for all apple orchards. A major outbreak that would destroy a large amount of the fruit is controlled by ten to twelve fungicide sprayings per year.

Gypsy Moth Infestation occurs about every 25 years. The last infestation occurred in 1980, 1981, and 1982 and much plant (tree) destruction resulted as the larvae fed on leaves.

Time of Year

The Potato Blight can occur anytime from planting to harvest. Winter-stored potatoes are vulnerable if stored with potatoes that have been infected.

Apple Scab can occur from blooming to picking time.

The Gypsy Moth's most destructive period is June through early September.

Speed of Onset

Depends on the type as well as the fungus, bacteria, virus and/or climate.

Duration of Event

Potato Blight can be rapidly alleviated by applying oil then burning the infected plants.

Gypsy Moth Infestation lasts from two to three years.

Area of Impact

Potato Blight can affect any area where potatoes are grown, whether a large potato farm or a small garden with only a few plants.

All apple orchards are potential impact areas for outbreak of Apple Scab.

Gypsy Moth Infestation has been a State-Wide Problem.