Phytophthora austrocedri, a species of Phytophthora never before reported in North America, has been detected in two Pacific Northwest nursery operations. In response, efforts are rapidly unfolding to address this emerging threat, says AmericanHort.
As is often the case with new plant health challenges, many questions remain: What are the origins of this pathogen? Was it introduced, and if so, how? How long has it been present? How far has it spread? And most importantly, how severe could its impact be on nurseries, landscapes and the ecosystem?
AmericanHort's response focuses on three key areas: science, regulation and outreach/education. They're collaborating with the research community, industry partners such as the Oregon Association of Nurseries, and federal and state plant regulatory agencies.
On the research front, a team of leading scientists is already working to map out what is known and what still needs to be discovered to effectively address Phytophthora prevention—both for this new species and others that may threaten plant production.
Read more at Grower Talks