Blueberries are beloved for their sweet, tangy flavor, but a stealthy fungal threat is putting these berries in jeopardy. The culprit? Monilinia vaccinii-corymbosi, also known as mummy berry disease.
This sneaky fungus starts by infecting blueberry blossoms. At first glance, the plants may seem fine, but as the fungus spreads, berries shrivel and harden into gray, mummified shells.
The disease doesn't just ruin the fruit; it compromises the plant's overall health, reducing future harvests.
Mummy berry disease thrives in cool, wet conditions, making early spring a dangerous season for blueberries. Spores travel through wind and rain, infecting new plants and wreaking havoc on crops.
Preventing this fungus requires vigilance. Growers should prune to improve airflow, remove infected berries, and apply fungicides at the first sign of trouble
Organic options like neem oil or sulfur can also help protect plants.
By staying proactive, blueberry lovers can safeguard their bushes and ensure this sneaky fungus doesn’t spoil their sweet harvests