In New Zealand, Kiwifruit Vine Health Inc (KVH) has announced that it has received a positive result for the deadly Psa-V disease on a Hort16A Gold kiwifruit orchard near Te Awamutu, in South Waikato.
According to the group, this is the first reported case of Psa-V in the Waikato region, although Psa-V secondary symptoms have also been observed on another orchard nearby.
KVH noted that samples have been taken from the orchard and are being tested, and that a ‘controlled area’ within a 12km radius of the infected orchard had been established.
Some 26 growers within the controlled area have been advised to monitor orchards extensively and report any suspicious Psa-V symptoms to KVH, while also implementing and maintaining a protective spray programme, maintaining strict orchard hygiene procedures, and not moving plant material from the area.
Barry O’Neil, chief executive of KVH, said the news reinforced that all regions and all varieties are at risk of Psa.
'The find is obviously very concerning to growers in the Waikato region,' he explained. 'We are committed to working with them to contain the spread of the disease and give growers the best advice to protect their orchards.
'This latest incursion highlights the importance of vigilant orchard hygiene and a crop protection programme for all growers,' O'Neill added. 'Without on-going protection, growers run the risk of allowing Psa-V to enter their orchards. Growers must not be complacent about the risk of Psa-V.'
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