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Netherlands: Olive quick decline syndrome anticipated

The dreaded olive quick decline syndrome can also strike in the Netherlands. The bacteria Xylella fastidiosa is responsible for this disease with its far-reaching consequences. That is why LTO Nederland is sending out warnings to take every action to prevent this possibility.

If the plant disease strikes in the Netherlands, then the affected tree growers and dealers face tough and extensive consequences. First of all, a 10km buffer zone is established. Within that zone, which remains in effect for at least 5 years, no host plants of Xylella can be marketed.

'Keep the Netherlands Xylella-free' is the urgent message printed on a folder, but it is really a warning.

Growers of trees and plants
The warning is aimed at growers of trees and perennials, bedding, container and pot plants as well as managers of public green spaces. Dealers are also being addressed, because there is a set of measures that they can take to stay ahead of the harmful bacteria.

The bacterial disease caused by Xylella fastidiosa appeared a few years ago in the heel of Italy. It is not hazardous to people or animals. A genetic variant of it was discovered in the south of France in the summer of 2015. Warning about the disease is not excessive: it can damage over 350 different plants. A special folder has now been issued that contains the available knowledge on this quarantined organism.

Vacationers
The obvious focus is to concentrate on what growers, dealers and groundsmen can do to prevent the spread of this bacteria. Next, vacationers will also be informed about the problem in coming weeks via a Facebook action and advised not to bring host plants of Xylella (cutting, plants, etc.) from those regions of Europe where the bacteria has been found.

The informative folders are being distributed by LTO Trees & Perennials professional group, LTO Glaskracht Nederland and Naktuinbouw (Netherlands Inspection Service for Horticulture). They are also available online, via LTO Nederland and the NVWA among others. The folder was put together by: LTO Trees & Perennials professional group, LTO Glaskracht Nederland, VBN, Anthos, Plantum, Tuinbranche Nederland, NVWA and Naktuinbouw.

Source: Royal FloraHolland
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