Genomic surveillance of epiphytic Pseudomonas syringae identifies highly virulent strains from phylogroup 2d widespread in UK orchards

Conclusion Cherry trees in orchards and related wild plants in nearby woodlands harbour different populations of epiphytic bacteria. Virulent cherry pathogens prevalently present on symptomless plants in the orchards and woodlands across the England, but almost absent from sites in Scotland. Pathogens from domestic cherry trees pose a threat to wild cherry trees, and vice versa.