Update on Vine Disease. I'm Greg Martin with today's Fruit Grower Report.
We have discussed leaf roll and fan leaf disease that appears in grapes in the past but Dr. Naidu A. Rayapati, Assistant Professor (Virology) at WSU's IAREC says there has been some new information come to light recently.
RAYAPATI: Well historically we know that leaf roll disease is a significant problem for the sustainable growth of the wine grape industry in the Pacific Northwest. The research that we have done for the past 5 years not only in Washington State but also in Idaho and Oregon clearly shows that leaf roll disease is widespread.
Even more so than earlier thought. Rayapati says it is spreading due to lack of awareness and proper management tactics.
RAYAPATI: Our research clearly shows that among several different leaf roll associated viruses, leaf roll 3 seems to be the most predominant virus. So that is a significant finding and it helps us to focus our efforts in tackling this particular virus disease problem in a more effective manner.
Overall growth and vigor of grapevines and yield of berries are detrimentally impacted by GLD. Infected vines exhibit reduced leaf area and develop weak trunks over time, which translate into decreased vineyard life span and vine productivity. Yield reductions directly attributable to GLD vary, but reductions in the neighborhood of 50% (or more if the disease is severe) are commonly reported on a worldwide basis.
More tomorrow.
That's today's Fruit Grower Report. I'm Greg Martin on the Ag Information Network.