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ARS Home » Southeast Area » Byron, Georgia » Fruit and Tree Nut Research » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #391944
Research Project: Healthy, Sustainable Pecan Nut Production

Location: Fruit and Tree Nut Research

Title: Phony peach disease

Author
item JOHNSON, KENDALL - University Of Georgia
item BRANNEN, PHILLIP - University Of Georgia
item Bock, Clive

Submitted to: Extension Service Bulletins
Publication Type: Other
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/10/2022
Publication Date: 2/11/2022
Citation: Johnson, K.A., Brannen, P.M., Bock, C.H. 2022. Phony peach disease. Extension Service Bulletins. Vol 1253.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Phony peach disease (PPD) is a reemerging disease of peaches in the Southeast that can result in severe economic losses if left unmanaged. PPD was first observed near Marshallville, GA, in 1885. By 1915, it had spread throughout the middle and southern Georgia peach production areas, significantly affecting commercial and homeowner peach quality and yield. In 1929, roguing of diseased trees was recommended by federal and state authorities. This cultural practice of inoculum reduction through tree destruction continues to be the primary disease management tool for PPD to this day. Infected peach trees appear dwarfed, with shortened internodes and flat tops. Historically, the disease was reported as far west as Texas and as far north as Pennsylvania, but in recent years it has only been reported in the southeastern United States. The current projected PPD range is based on recent surveys of peach production regions and is likely a reflection in part of the dramatically reduced commercial peach production in the southeastern region. The bulletin describes the history of PPD, causal agent and symptoms, and methods for control.