What can be a critical consequence of allowing fire blight to spread?

Allowing fire blight to spread can lead to the death of the tree or bush. Fire blight is a bacterial disease that primarily affects apple and pear trees, among other species. It causes significant damage by infecting the blossoms, twigs, and branches, leading to wilting and a characteristic darkening of the affected areas—often described as "blighted." If the disease is not properly controlled, it can lead to extensive dieback and ultimately result in the death of the infected plant. Once a tree or bush is severely infected, the structural integrity and overall health of the plant are compromised, making it unable to sustain life.

In contrast to this consequence, the idea that fire blight might strengthen the immune systems of nearby plants, enhance pollination success, or result in minimal damage and easy control does not align with the known effects of the disease. Fire blight is destructive and poses serious risks to horticultural crops, emphasizing the importance of taking swift action to manage and contain its spread.