Historical document
Strategies to control purple spot of asparagus (VX01024)
Publication date: November 1, 2004
Delivery Partner: Institute for Horticultural Development
This is a final research report from Hort Innovation’s historical archives. Please note that as these reports may date back as far as the 1990s, the content and recommendations within them may be superseded by more recent research.
Purple spot was a serious foliar disease of asparagus worldwide. In Australia, purple spot occured in every growing region, prematurely defoliating crops thereby reducing the carbohydrate storage potential and yield of the asparagus crown. This project had sought to investigate management strategies for purple spot in southern Victoria, from seed health to the mature crop. Control of foliar diseases would contribute to the longevity of the asparagus crown and assist in achieving sustainable yields. Strategies had been developed which resulted in heightened grower awareness of the disease and tangible outcomes that could be easily implemented on farm without compromising export and local market access. The following industry priorities have been addressed:
Recommendations included in this report provided asparagus growers with tools to manage a serious foliar disease and hygiene practices to minimise the impact of other diseases, especially exotic diseases, which threatened the viability of the Victorian asparagus industry. Future research was still a priority to keep abreast of pest and disease threats.
This historical project was a strategic levy investment for the vegetable industry
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