Pruning cuts may be an ideal source of entry for the fungi. Spores are spread by rain, so infection tends to be greater when there is high rainfall, especially around harvest. The fungus can penetrate the fruit directly and does not need a wound to enter. Ripe spot has been found in all fruit growing regions in New Zealand. In the past it has been particularly serious in Nelson.
Ripe spot is considered more of a problem in storage.
Sometimes symptoms do not appear until after several months in store. The infection does not tend to spread between apples or pears in a carton or bin. Fungicide applied during the month before harvest gives some protection. Early infections should be controlled by a general fungicide programme. Captan, mancozeb and ziram are effective against ripe spot.