Question
I have a bradford pear tree that is around 15 years old, all the leaves have turned bright red and are falling off.  From what I have found on the internet it appears this could be fire blight. Please advise as to what I can do.
Thanks,
Mary Ann

Answer
Mary Ann:
Typically, the symptoms of FB are manifested as dark brown to black leaves starting to develop at the tips of the branches and progressively work backwards.  These affected twigs are usually seen ocurring in a random distribution in the tree rather than a uniform pattern.  If possible, can you send a photo showing the entire tree?  If the leaves are displaying a premature fall color, it may be an inherit problem with the genetics of the tree, particulary if the tree is mature.  If that is the case, we have not been able to detect a bona fide consistent disease organism present, but a combination of issues that include a weak root system. In the meantime, take a look at the base of the tree and look for evidence of damge with bark sloughing off.

Regards
Steve