MANAGEMENT STRATEGIES FOR RATOON STUNTING DISEASE IN SUGARCANE AT RAMU SUGAR

摘要

Ratoon stunting disease (RSD) of sugarcane is caused by the bacterium, Leifsonia xyli Daw's and it is a major problem in many sugar industries worldwide. Recently, this disease was detected in commercial crops at Ramu Sugar. Data from estate wide survey indicated up to 84% of the samples taken were tested positive to RSD. In 2004, crop losses are estimated to be at least 15%, this is worth up to K14.2million. Management strategies have been developed and these would take up to 5 years to be fully implemented. This program would cost up to KO. 5million in the first year and in subsequent years, this will be around K300-400,000 per year.