Godronia canker

Godronia canker, also known as Fusicoccum canker, is a fungal disease caused by Godronia cassandrae (anamorph Fusicoccum putrefaciens). It is a significant concern for berry producers, particularly affecting cranberry and blueberry crops by causing stem girdling and plant dieback.

The pathogen primarily attacks the stems and branches of the host plants. Infection typically occurs through wounds or natural openings in the bark, allowing the fungus to colonize the cambium and xylem, which disrupts water and nutrient transport throughout the plant.

Symptoms of the disease include the development of reddish-brown or gray, sunken cankers on the stems. As the infection progresses, the bark may split, and leaves above the affected area may turn yellow, wilt, and eventually die. During moist conditions, small, dark fruiting bodies of the fungus may appear on the dead bark surface.

The development and spread of the pathogen are highly dependent on environmental moisture. Frequent rainfall, high humidity, and mild temperatures are conducive to sporulation and infection. The spores are primarily dispersed via splashing rain and wind currents within the field during the growing season.

Management of Godronia canker involves a combination of cultural and chemical strategies. Key practices include:

• Removing and destroying infected plant tissue through pruning.
• Ensuring proper planting density to promote air circulation.
• Applying registered fungicides during the early spring and autumn when the fungus is most active.
• Maintaining healthy plant vigor to enhance natural resistance against pathogen penetration.