Bartlett Pear Tree Gets Rosy Spots After Budding

Question From: L. schewe - Sheridan, Oregon, United States
Q: I have a bartlette pear tree that just before blooming and after budding will get rosy red spots which will even come upon the blossoms as well. I think they are insects perhaps aphids? They will deform the emerging leaf.

A: You will be able to see aphids. Sounds more like the bacterial disease fireblight. I would cut a branch and take it to your local independent nursery that sells these tree. This disease is deadly and tough to eradicate. Planting resistant varieties is your best bet. Best And Happy Yardening, Nancy