New technology is coming to the apple and pear industry to help control fireblight. Actigard is a systemic compound with a unique mode of action that mimics the natural systemic-activated resistance response found in many plants. When applied preventatively, much like vaccinations are given to humans to ward off certain diseases, Actigard stimulates or induces the plant’s natural defenses, turning on the genes that are involved in fighting off infection from various diseases. Actigard (acibenzolar-S-methyl), a product of Syngenta, is registered for other crops, including tomatoes, tobacco, and berry fruits. ­Registration is pending for apples and pears. In pome fruit, […]