Disease at farm alarm

Race to control blueberry rust

A SERIOUS disease impacting a popular berry has been detected at a farm in the north.

Biosecurity Tasmania is investigating a detection of blueberry rust found on a small commercial blueberry farm.

Acting general manager Rae Burrows said blueberry rust is present in low levels in Tasmania, with Biosecurity Tasmania working closely with nursery operators and commercial berry growers to minimise the diseases impacts.

“While the investigation is carried out, restrictions on the movement of fruit and plant material, equipment, staff and visitors have been put in place to help contain the rust,” she said.

“Our first priority is to contain the rust to the individual property and then work with the grower to develop a site management plan.”

Tracing investigations have begun. “Many people have established plants in their home gardens and I encourage them to check their plants regularly for signs of blueberry rust,” Ms Burrows said.

Blueberry rust presents initially as small yellow, chlorotic leaf spots on the upper surface of young leaves.

The lesions then turn a rusty brown colour and increase in size as the infection progresses. Powdery pustules in a yellow-orange colour will develop on the underside of the leaves and may also appear on the fruit. There will also be premature leaf drops and defoliation.

Blueberry rust spreads by airborne spores, usually by wind, but spores can also be carried by people while making contact with plants. Anyone who has picked blueberries at a farm or bought fruit or plants and is concerned about signs of the disease can contact Biosecurity Tasmania on 6165 3777.