Citrus Canker Detected in Baldwin and Mobile Counties

Southeast growers, a quick alert from Alabama. Citrus canker, a federal and state regulated plant disease, has been detected in Baldwin and Mobile Counties, and the Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries, or ADAI, has established a quarantine. Auburn University’s Plant Pathology Lab confirmed the first detection from foliage and fruit collected during ADAI’s routine citrus survey.

This highly contagious disease spreads with wind-driven rain, flooding, overhead irrigation, and by moving infected plant material or contaminated tools and equipment. It is not harmful to people, but it weakens trees, triggers premature leaf and fruit drop, and makes fresh fruit unmarketable even though it’s safe to eat.

Commissioner Rick Pate warns, “Citrus canker is a serious disease of citrus that has decimated the industry in Florida. We must remain vigilant to contain the spread and protect citrus in Alabama.” ADAI has removed the positive tree and two additional symptomatic trees and is working with the orchard owner on further removals.

The Plant Protection Division will continue monitoring. For more information on citrus canker or the quarantine, visit agi.alabama.gov.