Nursery probe after blueberry rust outbreak

BIOSECURITY Tasmania is investigating after the discovery of blueberry rust in plants at nurseries across the state.

Biosecurity Tasmania acting general manager Rae Burrows said infected plants were found at nurseries in the South, North and North-West.

“Biosecurity Tasmania has worked with the outlets to remove all blueberry plants from sale at these locations until further notice,” he said.

“The outlets involved have been very proactive and supportive of the i mportance of this work. Our priority upon detection is to immediately manage the biosecurity risk and ensure appropriate measures are implemented to manage blueberry rust presence on site.”

Ms Burrows said a containment strategy was in place to reduce the risk of further spread.

There are five commercial berry growers being actively managed under the ment strategy.

Anyone who has recently bought a blueberry plant and has concerns is urged to contact Biosecurity Tasmania on 6165 3777. Suspect plants should not be disturbed or moved.

Further information about blueberry rust, including signs and symptoms, is at dpipwe.tas.gov.au/blueberryrust contain

Blueberry rust on a leaf.

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