Powdery scab situation
Powdery scab has been reported for the first time in 2006 (Porta-Puglia and Milfsud, Journal of Plant Pathology, 88(2), 227). The symptoms looked similar to wart disease but microscopical observations and immunological tests confirmed Spongospora as the cause.
The temperature cooler than normal which occurred during autumn and winter 2004-2005 may have contributed to this outbreak.Soil and weather conditions in Malta are
not considered to be favourable for powdery scab, although some
growers apparently knew the disease.
Research
No research is underway in the moment.
Contact address:
Plant Health Directorate
Lija LJA1915
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Last update: January, 2025