Webinar on Wednesday to Address Michigan Ralstonia Detection

Posted by Brian Sparks|April 27, 2020

Ralstonia solancearum race 3 biovar 2 (R3B2), a federal quarantine pest, was recently confirmed in a single geranium variety in a greenhouse in Michigan. It is the first confirmed case in the U.S. since 2004. Diseased geraniums planted in the landscape can potentially infect other plants, including tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, and eggplant, and must be destroyed.

Since the detection was confirmed, AmericanHort has collaborated with the importer of the geranium and with USDA-APHIS toward the goal of a rapid, targeted, and effective response that minimizes unnecessary interruption. The Horticultural Research Institute has joined this effort and will be hosting a webinar on Wednesday, April 29, on the basics of R3B2, such as how it spreads and prevention strategies, to help educate the green industry. APHIS will be on hand to discuss the recent action plan, and Ball Horticultural Co. will share its story.

Speakers and topics included:

Welcome & Introductory Remarks: Dr. Jill Calabro, HRI/AmericanHort Science & Research Director
Ralstonia Basics & Prevention Strategies: Dr. Caitilyn Allen, University of Wisconsin-Madison
APHIS Action Plan: Dr. Matt Royer, Associate Deputy Administrator Field Operations, USDA-APHIS PPQ
Ball Horticultural Co. Update: Mike Klopmeyer, President, Ball FloraPlant
Q&A: All