A planned Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry copper spraying programme to contain an outbreak of the potentially disastrous kiwifruit vine disease Psa (Pseudomonas syringae pv actinidiae) has been put on hold.
This morning the ministry said further exp
A planned Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry copper spraying programme to contain an outbreak of the potentially disastrous kiwifruit vine disease Psa (Pseudomonas syringae pv actinidiae) has been put on hold.
This morning the ministry said further expert advice had been taken overnight and the spraying had been delayed until the effect on vines, such as defoliation, can be assessed.
Meanwhile, 40 personnel from MAF and the industry are out collecting leaf samples from at least 40 gold and green kiwifruit orchards in the Te Puke region.
Zespri says the leaf samples will be handled according to MAF Biosecurity protocols and transported to laboratories for scientific testing.
"This collection process is in addition to the current passive surveys being conducted by all kiwifruit growers," Zespri says.
The test results are expected early next week and will provide a clearer picture of the geographical spread of potential infection.
Three orchards in Bay of Plenty are confirmed as having the Psa bacteria and two others have been quarantined, pending likely positive results.
Some 75 growers have emailed marketing company Zespri with photos showing signs of the disease on leaves and vines.
MAF has also widened its investigation to include growing regions in Northland, Nelson and Hawke's Bay.
The disease is threatening the $1.4 billion kiwifruit industry and already the US and Australia have banned imports of nursery plants and cuttings. But no moves have been taken to stop shipments of kiwifruit, which are not affected by PSa.
The copper spray is thought to be the most effective means containing the bacteria, which has also affected crops in Italy, Chile and Japan.
Biosecurity Minister David Carter says the government will give growers all the support they need. He also warned trading partners could use the outbreak to stop imports.
So far Australia and the US have banned imports of kiwifruit root stock, but have said they don't intend to take the ban any further.
Growers have been urged to take strict hygiene measures to ensure no further spread of the disease, which can easily move from orchard to orchard.
