The recent detection of Xylella on a trading nursery in Belgium has reminded us that we need to be vigilant and cautious when importing the most susceptible hosts of Xylella.
DAFM have recently issued a trader notice with updates relating to the movement of Polygala. After a review of the susceptibility of a range of plants by the EU, it was deemed that Polygala is now a higher risk than previously considered. These plants will now require a visual inspection, sampling and testing before leaving their original production site and again during production as was previously the case.
A plant passport is required for all the host plants unless it is sold directly to the final consumer. The trader notice above contains the full list of Xylella hosts requiring plant passports. The list is fairly long and it is something you must review.
Root rots during propagation
Light levels are dropping and shading of propagation areas can be removed after Halloween.
Slow root growth and warm, humid conditions on heated benches are ideal for root rots to develop. Careful monitoring of moisture, good hygiene, removing fallen leaves, clean water and free draining growing media will all help to reduce disease pressure on cutting material.
It is common practice to use preventative plant protection products to prevent disease occurring.
- Fenomenal – Fenamidone + Fosetyl aluminium
- Can be applied as a drip, drench or mix 100g/m3 FRAC 11 + 33
- Paraat – Dimethomorph
- Can be applied as a drench or by drip irrigation FRAC 40
- SL567A- Metalaxyl M
- Apply after sticking, organic matter will reduce effectiveness,
- Prestop – Gliocladium catenutulatum
- Bio fungicide no chemical active ingredient, incorporate in growing media or spray. Takes time to fully dissolve and require constant agitation while spraying.
- T34 – Trichoderma asperellum
- Bio fungicide for control of Fusarium oxysporum var diantii and Pythium apheridermatum no chemical active ingredient, incorporate in growing media or apply via irrigation/gantry or dip.
- Previcur Energy – Foestyle aluminium + Propamocarb
- May not be available but is permitted FRAC may not be available but is permitted FRAC 33+ 28
- Proplant – Propamocarb
- May not be available but is permitted, can be applied by drip irrigation FRAC 28
Allways follow label guidelines and wear appropriate PPE.
