First finding of Impatiens downy mildew in 2004
Impatiens Downy mildew (Plasmopara obducens) has been found for the first time this year. Last year the disease was found for the first time in the UK when it caused serious damage both on nurseries and in amenity plantings.
Growers are advised to
• Monitor crops regularly for signs of the disease.
• Reduce humidity to discourage disease development.
• Report suspect findings to their local Plant
Health & Seeds Inspector.
Given the damaging nature of the disease, official action will be required against any findings. The action required will include:
• Destruction of all infected plants.
• Precautionary fungicide treatment to remainder. Products include
azoxystrobin (e.g. Amistar), dimethomorph (e.g. Invader), fosetyl-aluminium
(e.g. Aliette) and metalaxyl-M (e.g. Folio Gold). See HDC
Fact sheet 05/04 for further details.
• Advice to reduce humidity and require removal and disposal of
any plant debris or self-sown impatiens plants in the house.
Sale of visibly disease-free plants will be allowed.
Page last modified:
22 Nov 2006
Page published: 21 Jun 2004