Test results show that the kiwi vine disease PSA has now spread outside the Te Puke area in the Bay of Plenty, confirming fears that the disease is more widespread than just one growing zone.

According to a statement from the country’s ministry of agriculture and forestry (MAF), four kiwi orchards have been confirmed as PSA positive. Previously the agriculture minister David Carter had said “aggressive containment” of the bacteria was the main focus.

However officials now have a much wider area to contain after the orchards in Hawk’s Bay have been confirmed. There have been a number of orchards that have reported suspected cases of PSA, but these findings are the first confirmed instances.

“These four new positives outside of Te Puke present MAF and the kiwifruit industry with an evolving picture of a wider distribution,” the statement said.

The total number of orchards confirmed to have PSA is now at 25.

Photo: Zespri

Source: www.freshfruitportal.com