FORECAST SUMMARY: Wednesday, April 4:
*** Disease Update - 4 April *** Tom Kucharek in FL informs us that blue mold is now present in two fields in northern FL, one in Alachua County, the other in Columbia County. Plants from the previously infected plant beds were used in those fields. Blue mold continues to spread locally in that area.
*** DISEASE UPDATE: First report of blue mold from North Carolina *** As reported Monday..... Blue mold has been discovered in a greenhouse near Rolesville, NC, along the Wake County / Franklin County border. This is a very weak source with only a few lesions present. The grower is taking preventative measures.
*** The active weather is in the Southeast Wednesday and Thursday *** A front is bringing unsettled weather for the next couple of days. Growers in northern FL are at Strongly Moderate Risk Wednesday and Thursday. Southwest GA is also at Strongly Moderate Risk on Thursday. The Thursday transport event from northern FL will be watched closely. The pathway moves into the TN Valley region during the second day of transport. Risk to growers here is Low, but could escalate if conditions become more favorable. Elsewhere..... there is Low Risk to growers Wednesday and Thursday.
TK
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?
Climate Outlooks and Epidemic Prognoses
Current Sources:
Previous Sources:
Papantla, Veracruz, Mexico
Tepic, Nayarit, Mexico
***** 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.