The infection spreads down the pedicel and the tissue becomes water-soaked and dark green. The leaves on blighted terminals turn brown to black and usually remain firmly attached to the infected twig throughout the growing season. Blighted terminals usually take on a shephard's crook appearance. Infection through flowers will not spread as fast as infections on twigs. These droplets contain millions of bacteria which can initiate new infections.
Insects disseminate or spread the bacteria.
When honeybees or flies visit infected blossoms their bodies may become covered with the bacteria contained in the droplets and this is how the disease is spread. Rain and windblown mist may also transfer bacteria from diseased to healthy plant parts. Sanitation - The first step in a good control program starts with removal of all infected tissue as soon as it appears. Other important sanitation practices include removal of all root suckers and succulent water sprouts that might become infected and carry bacteria into the main trunk. Cankers on large limbs and trunks are best removed during the dormant period by cutting or scraping away infected tissue.