Fruit tree cancer management: from nursery to orchard

Fruit tree cancer caused by *Neonectria ditissima* affects apple and pear trees, entering via pruning wounds, frost cracks, and leaf scars. It causes branch dieback and can kill trees. Susceptible cultivars include 'Jonagold', 'Civni', 'Discovery', and 'Braeburn'; resistant ones include 'Golden Delicious' and 'Santá'. Management involves pruning infected branches, applying fungicides like Captan during bloom and leaf fall, using wound sealants, and removing debris. Monitoring for cankers and avoiding pruning in wet conditions is critical. The KOM-Project, funded by Dutch agricultural sectors, supports research and knowledge transfer for disease control.