Canada: Black spot disease detected in PEI potato fields

This disease, relatively widespread in the United States, is named for the fine black spots that appear on the roots, stems and leaves.

According to Julie Pasche, associate professor and chair of the potato pathology department at North Dakota State University, the disease is spread through the soil and is transmitted from infected seeds. It is a very resistant disease , she says.

Dartrose could cause yield loss for growers, due to smaller tubers and discoloration of the potato.

According to Julie Pasche, the best method to eliminate the disease is to leave the land fallow for 15 to 20 years, depending on the amount of pathogen present in the soil ..