BPS – SMUT UPDATE

There have been some concerns regarding ongoing smut issues with SRA8 in the district.  Following the discovery of smut in SRA8 in some plots last year, there has been some misinformation regarding the management and spread of the disease.  SRA pathologists have advised that SRA8 grown commercially with minimal stress is unlikely to contract smut in high levels early in the crop cycle.  Growers who have planted SRA8 should ensure it is well irrigated with appropriate nutrition and weed control.  Anyone planting SRA8 or other intermediate rated varieties, should plant with the fungicide Sinker to assist in control of the disease and minimise stress.  General farm biosecurity such as cleaning and sterlisiation of equipment should also occur.  Growers should also be aware that other varieties in the region are rated as intermediate for smut. Q252 is rated intermediate-susceptible, and Q208 and Q183 are rated as intermediate-resistant.

SRA 8 has been planted on the P&K farm and there is some smut in SRA 8 1^st ratoons.  This is the commercial cane that is sold to the mill, not growers.  Smut has not been detected in any of the cane in the distribution plots that is sold as approved seed cane.  BPS will be regularly inspecting and monitoring the approved seed cane and should any smut be detected in the approved seed cane it will not be sold to growers.  Please contact your field officer if you have any questions.

KCGOL endorses the need for growers to remain vigilant at all times especially during heightened level of smut activity in the district due to favourable climatic conditions.