First WA detection of blueberry rust sparks warning for growers to look for signs of serious disease

A serious fungal disease that could threaten the State’s $900 million horticulture industry has been detected for the first time in WA, prompting a warning for farmers and gardeners to keep their eyes peeled. The Department of Primary Industries and Regional Development on Tuesday revealed blueberry rust had been detected in a nursery near Perth. The finding — confirmed after laboratory analysis — sparked an urgent warning for gardeners and horticulture growers across the State to check for signs on their own plants. The disease — which has been detected in the Eastern States, as well as Europe, Asia, Mexico, Canada, the United States, South Africa and New Zealand — can cause plant death in severe cases. DPIRD chief plant biosecurity officer Sonya Broughton said it could impact blueberry fruit production by causing reduced vigour, premature leaf loss and reducing yields, and it was important to keep an eye out. “Symptoms are most noticeable on the underside of leaves, where yellow pustules can appear, which release thousands of yellow spores that can infect other leaves and spread the disease,” she said. “Also look for small reddish spots on the upper surfaces of young leaves, which can darken with age and often surrounded by a yellow halo. “Disease pustules may also appear on fruit later in the season.” DPIRD staff are undertaking tracing and delimiting surveillance to determine the spread of the disease, and working with the nursery and horticulture industries to contain it. Spread by tiny spores, Dr Broughton said plants with signs of blueberry rust should not be moved and reported immediately to the department’s Pest and Disease Information Service or via the MyPestGuide Reporter app. She encouraged growers and gardeners to employ a ‘come clean, go clean’ approach to crop and garden management. Growers can manage the fungal disease by planting tolerant varieties or using permitted fungicides. Dr Broughton said good on-farm and garden hygiene was “imperative” to prevent it spreading, including using clean garden tools, washing shoes and clothing, and limiting the movement of vehicles and garden implements near plants. “It is important not disturb or move the plant, while care should be taken to ensure that any clothes or equipment do not become contaminated,” she said. “If you suspect blueberry rust is present in your plants, you must report it immediately, as it is a notifiable disease.” To find out more, visit agric.wa.gov.au/blueberry-rust.