PGRO warns of downy mildew in bean crops

摘要

THE Processors and Growers Reasearch Organisation (PGRO) has issued an early warning of high levels of downy mildew in bean crops. The wet and cool beginning of the season has triggered an exceptionally early start of soil-borne disease sporulation, says Dr Anthony Biddle of PGRO, the independent research and advisory organisation for pea and bean growers. "Where growers may normally expect to see isolated incidence of downy mildew lesions early in the season, this year the damaging disease is already widespread," he said. The danger is that unless growers clear up the disease, or weather conditions turn much drier, air-borne downy mildew (Peronosppra viciae) spores will spread in their billions later in the season.