Manage the Risk of Beet Western Yellow Virus (BWYV) and Other Diseases in 2015

Frank Henry1, Jenny Davidson2 and Paul Umina3
1Department of Economic Development, Jobs Transport and Resources (DEDJTR), 2South Australian Research & Development Institute (SARDI), 3cesar

Key Messages
• Substantial summer rains have increased the risk of GPA, BWYV and cereal rusts for 2015.
• Remove the “green bridge” over summer and autumn prior to sowing to reduce the risk of BWYV and its vector the green peach aphid (GPA), as well as cereal rusts.
• Use a current disease guide to check the varietal rust ratings before sowing, and take appropriate action if sowing cereal varieties susceptible to rust.
• To reduce the risk of BWYV, do not sow canola into desiccating weeds/canola volunteers as aphids will move directly from the weeds to the emerging seedlings.
• Monitor GPA populations on weeds, volunteers and seedling crops.
• For early control of GPA use seed treated with a neonicotinoid insecticide, and if farmer applied, ensure proper application and coverage of seed dressing for efficacy against GPA.
• Ensure correct identification of GPA before applying insecticides to protect seedling canola.
• Use a PreDicta B soil test before sowing to identify paddocks at risk of soil borne diseases.