Plum pox Plum pox Plum pox, also known as sharka, is the most devastating viral disease of stone fruit from the genus "Prunus". The disease is caused by the plum pox virus (PPV), and the different strains may infect a variety of stone fruit species including peaches, apricots, plums, nectarine, almonds, and sweet and tart cherries. Wild and ornamental species of "Prunus" may also become infected by some strains of the virus. The virus is transmitted by aphids and by the transfer of infected plant material to new locations. Plum pox poses no danger to consumers, but it can ruin the marketability
Fruit butter Fruit butter A fruit butter is a sweet spread made of fruit cooked to a paste, then lightly sweetened. It falls into the same category as jelly and jam. Apple butter and plum butter are common examples. Fruit pastes, popular in Latin American countries, are similar but more highly sweetened and jelled. They are sold in shallow tins or as wrapped bricks, while fruit butters usually come in wide-mouthed jars. In order to make fruit butter, the fruit is cooked on a low temperature until much of its water has evaporated, and is then blended. Sweeteeners such as honey or