What is Pierce’s disease?

Pierce's disease is a plant disease caused by the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa. It primarily affects grapevines, causing significant economic losses in vineyards. The bacterium is spread by insects known as sharpshooters, which feed on the sap of infected plants and then transmit the bacteria to healthy plants as they feed.

Symptoms of Pierce's disease in grapevines include wilting, leaf scorch, and eventual death of the plant. The disease can progress rapidly, particularly in warm climates where sharpshooters are prevalent.

Efforts to control Pierce's disease often involve managing sharpshooter populations, using disease-resistant grapevine varieties, and employing cultural practices to reduce the spread of the bacterium. Additionally, research into treatments and genetic resistance in grapevines continues to be a focus in combating this disease. IPM ( integrated pest management ) is the easiest and lowest cost option for controlling sharpshooter populations. Western bluebirds in particular are useful in this.