The pome fruits, apple and pear, represent very important fruit crops in Europe. They are grown on 490,000 ha in 15 countries with a production of more than 11 million tons per year (FAO, 2003). This corresponds to an estimated annual value of {\text\euro}20 billion at consumer prices. European consumers are highly concerned about health and safety aspects of food. High quality fruits in sufficient amounts can only be produced on healthy plants. Thus, one of the most important tasks in crop production is an effective and sustainable management of plant diseases.     «

The pome fruits, apple and pear, represent very important fruit crops in Europe. They are grown on 490,000 ha in 15 countries with a production of more than 11 million tons per year (FAO, 2003). This corresponds to an estimated annual value of {\text\euro}20 billion at consumer prices. European consumers are highly concerned about health and safety aspects of food. High quality fruits in sufficient amounts can only be produced on healthy plants. Thus, one of the most important tasks in crop prod...     »