Ralstonia solanacearum (probably race 1) detected in ornamental Curcuma plants in the Netherlands
During the annual national survey on Ralstonia solanacearum (EPPO A2 List) carried out in the Netherlands, the presence of the bacterium was detected in ornamental Curcuma plants. On 2014-08-18, the identity of the bacterium, most probably race 1 (still under investigation), was confirmed in 2 greenhouse production sites on Curcuma plants for planting, grown for final consumers. In both production sites, mild symptoms were observed on a small number of plants (5 to 10 plants in the entire greenhouse). The NPPO considered that there was no risk of further spread to tomato or potato cultivation, because of the absence of such crops in the vicinity of the infected greenhouses and because irrigation water used within each company was recycled. The origin of this finding is unknown, however it is noted that both growers have regularly imported plant material from Thailand. A similar finding was recorded in 2001, and in the preceding years (1997) R. solanacearum race 1 had been regularly intercepted on rhizomes of Curcuma originating from Thailand.
Phytosanitary measures have been implemented to eradicate the disease. Measures taken on the two sites include removal and destruction of symptomatic plants, treatment of irrigation water, restricted access and movement of machinery, goods, plant material and persons. Cut flowers and plants for planting can be sold to final consumer only under official control. A survey has been completed on the premises of 3 other Dutch growers of Curcuma plants for planting and did not detect the bacterium.
The pest status of Ralstonia solanacearum (race 1) in the Netherlands is officially declared as: Transient, found on Curcuma plants for planting, under eradication.
Sources
NPPO of the Netherlands (2014-09).