Blackfoot in vineyards new zealand winegrowers fact sheet nztd102

A very specific topic!

The fact sheet you're referring to is likely from the New Zealand Winegrowers organization, and it's about the Blackfoot disease in vineyards. Here's a summary of the key points:

What is Blackfoot disease?

Blackfoot disease is a bacterial disease caused by the bacterium Phyllobacterium trifolii. It affects grapevines, particularly in warm and humid environments, and can cause significant damage to the plant.

Symptoms of Blackfoot disease

The disease typically starts with small, black or dark brown lesions on the stems and petioles of the grapevine. These lesions can expand and merge, causing the stem to become brittle and prone to breaking. Infected vines may also exhibit yellowing or browning of the leaves, and reduced growth.

How is Blackfoot disease spread?

The bacterium that causes Blackfoot disease is spread through:

  1. Contaminated pruning equipment and tools
  2. Infected plant material (e.g., cuttings, grafts)
  3. Water splashing or runoff from infected areas
  4. Insect vectors (e.g., aphids, whiteflies)

Prevention and management

To prevent and manage Blackfoot disease, winegrowers can:

  1. Practice good sanitation and hygiene when pruning and handling vines
  2. Use clean and disinfected equipment and tools
  3. Remove and dispose of infected plant material
  4. Implement integrated pest management (IPM) strategies to reduce insect vectors
  5. Monitor vineyards regularly for signs of the disease
  6. Apply bactericides or other control measures as necessary

Impact on wine quality

Blackfoot disease can have significant impacts on wine quality, including:

  1. Reduced yields and grape quality
  2. Increased risk of secondary infections (e.g., fungal diseases)
  3. Potential for off-flavors and aromas in the wine

Conclusion

Blackfoot disease is a significant threat to grapevines in New Zealand and other warm and humid regions. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and management strategies for this disease, winegrowers can take proactive steps to prevent and control its spread, ensuring the long-term health and productivity of their vineyards.