Some vines recover from Pierce's disease the first winter following infection. The probability of recovery depends on the date of infection. Infections that occur until June have the greatest probability of surviving until the following year. Thompson Seedless, Cabernet Sauvignon, Gray Riesling, Merlot, Napa Gamay, Petite Sirah, and Sauvignon Blanc are intermediate in their susceptibility to this disease and thus in their probability of recovery. In tolerant cultivars the bacteria spread more slowly within the plant than in more susceptible cultivars.
Young vines are more susceptible than mature vines.
Rootstock species and hybrids vary greatly in susceptibility. Many rootstock species are resistant to Pierce's disease, but the rootstock does not confer resistance to susceptible Vinifera varieties grafted on to it. The degree of control, however, is not effective for very susceptible varieties such as Chardonnay and Pinot Noir or for vines less than 3 years old. If a vineyard is near an area with a history of Pierce's disease, plant varieties that are less susceptible to this disease. Monitor and treat for insect vectors as described in the section on sharpshooters.