Apple blossom-end rot due to Neonectria ditissima is initiated by infections at full flowering and incipient petal fall

Neonectria ditissima is a major cause of blossom-end rot (eye rot, calyx-end rot) as pre-harvest fruit apple in Northwestern Europe. Artificial inoculation trees was undertaken at close intervals under natural conditions during flowering order to obtain higher-resolution definition the most susceptible phenological stage for infections by N. ditissima. Similar trials were conducted another fungus, Botrytis pseudocinerea. Results showed full bloom be infection cultivar ‘Pinova’, whereas with ‘Nicoter’ highest rates obtained petal fall, reflecting temporal differences flower development between one-year-old and older wood. Few observed beginning or about one week after fall when no petals left on flowers, knots enlarging. This finding shortens time-span compared previous knowledge. Floral inoculations conidia B. pseudocinerea unsuccessful. Options control integrated pest management include timing scab powdery mildew fungicide sprays bloom, canker pruning just ahead orchards strongly affected