FORECAST DISCUSSION: Sunday, April 16: *** Blue mold has been discovered in NC *** Blue mold has completely overtaken one greenhouse on a farm in Lenoir County in eastern NC. Disease has likely spread to the field, as 15 acres of tobacco were set with plants from this greenhouse earlier this week. Two other greenhouses also have areas of sporulation. The grower is destroying all symptomatic plants. However, this is a very strong source.
*** A break today for the Southeast between weather systems *** Most areas will be partly cloudy and dry today. Some lingering clouds a few areas as the first system exits and some western sections of the region may be affected later today. Spores release from eastern NC will initially move east and then turn back to the northwest on Monday. With the leftover clouds in eastern NC, today's event may affect some growers. Moderate Risk for northeast NC and southeast VA. Any washout will occur when Monday afternoon's rains arrive. The source in northern FL is a Low Threat. Skies are sunny near the source and the trajectory moves offshore. The source in Cuba won't threaten the U.S. growing areas today.
TK
Seriously Threatening Sources: None
HIGH RISK areas: None
Blue Mold Active in the Plant Bed and Greenhouse (click on small image for larger image)
What should one look for?
*** New for 2000 *** Climate Outlooks and Epidemic Prognoses
Current Sources:
Previous Sources:
None
***** NOTE: These forecasts/outlooks only apply to disease development from airborne transport of spores!!! We do not have the capability to ascertain blue mold development by other means, such as transplanting of infected seedlings, nor will we attempt to do so. Please consult the Extension Service personnel in your area if you have concerns about these matters! *****
This service is provided by the North Carolina State University departments of Plant Pathology and Marine, Earth, and Atmospheric Sciences.
Web page last updated by Thomas Keever on 14 April 2000.