LATE BLIGHT FOUND IN MICHIGAN

Late blight has been found in a field in Southwest Michigan near the town of Three Rivers. It was found on a variety that is particularly susceptible to the disease. However, it is highly unlikely that the disease was initiated through seed-borne infection as it appeared 7 days after heavy rains and thunderstorms passed through the area. The outbreak has been contained, as the infected area has been dessicated with Diquat and the surrounding fields have been sprayed with Gavel, Curzate, Supertin and Bravo.

This year has seen heavy rains in some areas of the state and this outbreak illustrates the need to be vigilant and the importance of scouting fields at least once a week. Particular attention should be paid to pivot tracks and other such lanes created by farm machinery. For further information on measures that should be taken when late blight is observed refer to the Late Blight extension bulletin. This bulletin is also available as a high quality downloadable .pdf file.