Pacific Coast Pear Rust

Pacific coast pear rust affects pear trees and relies on juniper as an alternate host. Pear fruit become malformed while young and drop from the tree. Remove infected alternate hosts around orchards when possible. This rust spreads by spores in wet weather. Improve air circulation and reduce leaf wetness to manage disease spread during vulnerable periods. This rust disease spreads readily in moist spring and fall conditions common to Western Washington. Watch foliage closely for early symptoms.

Remove alternate hosts around the orchard. Separating hosts by 0.5 to 2 miles has been recommended. Identify and manage the alternate host if one exists. Remove heavily infected tissue and clean up fallen debris. Preventive fungicide applications before the infection window offer the best chemical control.