Agriculture: Massive crop failures due to plant disease Stolbur

A plant disease ensures massive losses and even total failure for potato and vegetable farmers. In some parts of Germany, sugar beets and potatoes are particularly affected.

In Baden-Württemberg, according to the Stuttgart Ministry of Agriculture, however, loss of yield and quality are also registered with beetroot, celery, cabbage, onion and carrots. A type of cicada is responsible for the spread of plant disease Stolbur. A ministry spokesman spoke of a “serious threat” for the supply of domestic potatoes, vegetables and sugar.

Farmers’ president in concern

The President of the German Farmers’ Association, Joachim Rukwied, is “very worried” because of the rapid spread of the reed-glass wi cigade. The insect spread from Baden-Württemberg via Rhineland-Palatinate, Bavaria and Hesse to the north and had now also been discovered in Lower Saxony and Saxony-Anhalt. It demands effective means to combat the cicadas.

Massive losses, especially in the southwest

According to the environmental officer of the Baden-Württemberg State Farmers’ Association, Isabell Pergner, in Baden-Württemberg alone in all relevant beet growing areas, there was a loss of earnings of up to 25 percent and greatly reduced sugar content. Losses of up to 70 percent were documented in potato cultivation.

“In some companies, the continuation of the extension is in question,” said the association spokeswoman. The disease develops into a serious economic risk for entire regions. It is therefore urgently needed regular approval of effective pesticides as well as the targeted promotion of practical research on resistance breeding and sustainable control strategies.

According to the associations and authorities, there is no evidence that Stolbur could be harmful to humans. Potatoes and vegetables with rubber -like consistency or when signs of putrefaction are also not available.