We are now in the thick of the Monilinia Blight season with apothecia emerging and active (Figure 1) and many blueberry varieties having buds in the F2 stage of development (Figure 2). We had conditions for infection periods during the rain we received Friday and Sunday last week, and there is potential for another infection period this Thursday with the forecasted rain and warm temperatures.
Many growers sprayed last week ahead of the precipitation received on Friday and Sunday. Growers are urged to reapply either before Thursday's rain using any registered fungicide for Monilinia Blight in highbush blueberry, or directly after using a registered group 3 fungicide, which can provide back action up to 72-hours after an infection period. At this point the weather for the weekend is unsettled, but there is potential for rain, and applications made for the infection period Thursday will provide residual control over the weekend.
 |
| Figure 1. Apothecia observed May 4, 2026. |
 |
| Figure 2. Blueberry buds at the F2 development stage observed May 4, 2026. |
