Gladiolus rust detected again in Florida

In March an inspector with Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, Division of Plant Industry (DPI) discovered a potential outbreak of gladiolus rust at a production nursery in Hendry County, Fla.

A DPI pathologist confirmed the sample was positive for gladiolus rust (Uromyces transversalis). USDA-APHIS, Plant Protection and Quarantine confirmed the diagnosis on March 14.

This is the first detection of the rust in Florida this year. It was found in 2006 and 2007 at the same operation. Following the initial find, further survey of the site revealed more infected plants. DPI and APHIS-PPQ are conducting a comprehensive survey to determine spread of the rust.

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For more: Anwar Rizvi, USDA-APHIS, Plant Protection and Quarantine, (301) 734-4313; anwar.s.rizvi@aphis.usda.gov; www.pestalert.org.

June 2008