Ralstonia solancearum race 3 biovar 2 (RSr3b2) is a plant bacterium capable of infecting a number of solanaceous weeds and crop plants (those in the nightshade family) and also geraniums. Geranium cuttings produced in offshore locations have been identified as the primary carrier of this disease to the US. While not currently established in the US, it is a federally quarantined pest and as such is subject to stringent eradication measures upon positive identification. Diseased geraniums planted in the landscape can potentially infect other plants, including tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and eggplant and thus must be destroyed when they are detected during greenhouse production.
The environmental horticulture industry stands to lose millions of dollars in production and retail environments when RSr3b2 is identified or worse, spread However, there are several practices producers and retail centers can employ to minimize impacts to business, even before a positive RSr3b2 diagnosis. The practices outlined below will help to minimize spread of RSr3b2, as well as other plant diseases.
Symptoms include the following:
If you suspect you may have RSr3b2-infected plants, contact your county extension agent or state department of agriculture immediately for diagnosis.
The Horticultural Research Institute (HRI), founded in 1962, has provided more than $10 million in funds to research projects covering a broad range of industry issues. HRI is committed to supporting the horticultural industry’s ability to innovate, sustain essential functions, and respond effectively to challenges with research that can be practically applied in nurseries, greenhouses, retail garden centers, landscapes, and other green industry businesses.
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