Inspect for scale insects and if present, spray before the buds start with strong lime-sulphur. The Pear Blister Mite (a mite that causes thickened red and brown spots on the leaves) and the Pear Psylla may also be partially controlled by this spraying for scale. If these pests were serious last year, make the strong lime-sulphur spraying even if not needed for the San Jose scale.
APPLY THE SAME GENERAL TREATMENT TO PEARS as is given for apples.
If the dilute lime-sulphur is used, it should not be as strong as for apples (see dilution table on page 169.)
PEAR BLIGHT OR FIRE BLIGHT was very serious last season in many
parts of the state. It is easily noticed; a branch, dies back from the tip, leaves turn brown, wither, but do not drop. Is caused by a germ that works within the twig and hence spraying is not a preventative. It usually is more serious in rapidly growing trees and for this reason, many pear orchards are left in sod. Cut out the diseased twigs and branches. Make a frequent and systematic inspection of every tree and cut out every diseased twig and branch found. Cut several inches below where the wood appears to be dead. Carry the dead portion out of the orchard and bury or burn. After every cut, wipe off the wound with a cloth or sponge moistened with a 5% carbolic acid solution.
If slugs appear, spray with an arsenical, if not too near ripening of fruit to be dangerous. In case of early pears fresh hydrated lime may be dusted on.
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