Monilinia infection periods April 29 to May 3

Midcoast

With the warmer weather, mummy berry cups have been seen in fields in Waldoboro, West Rockport and Hope. Fields in the midcoast varied from 10 to 40% of the flower buds at F2 (crown stage). If the field had more than 30 to 40% of flower buds at F2, this would have been enough susceptible tissue exposed to need a fungicide application. A possible Monilinia infection period occurred with the rain from April 29 around 2pm to the morning of May 1st at fields in Waldoboro, West Rockport, and Hope.

Hancock and Washington Counties

Flower buds also range from 10% to 40% F2 in Hancock and Downeast fields. Most fields are closer to 20%, but you will need to check your field. Pinheads have been in fields in the barrens. There were reported conditions for a Monilinia infection starting from April 29 around noon in Ellsworth, Aurora and Sedgewick (Blue Hill). If your plants were early developing fields, they may have had a Monilinia infection.

Forecast for Rain

Starting the evening of Saturday May 2, the forecast is for a long enough period of rain and likely warm enough conditions to cause Monilinia infection in all fields that are far enough along in their development. Please check your flower buds to see if your field has over 30 to 40% of its flowers at the F2 stage. Monday and Tuesday are forecast to be dry and sunny with the next possible rain on Wednesday, May 6.