Notorious Plant Pathogen Found in US Greenhouse: Ralstonia solanacearum

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EAST HARTFORD, CT – The recent finding of the fierce plant pathogen, Ralstonia solanacearum, in a Michigan greenhouse has many growers concerned throughout the industry. The USDA has determined that over 250 growers in 38 states may have received affected shipments, including at least 40 growers in Michigan. This pathogen causes a severe disease that can completely wreak havoc for a greenhouse and nursery operation.

Ralstonia solanacearum is a soilborne bacterium that causes bacterial wilt in numerous horticultural and agricultural crops, and it is also the causal agent for brown rot of potato. This pathogen primarily survives in infected plant material, wild host plants, and soil; however, the pathogen can be spread through contaminated tools and equipment. With such a widespread and severe disease, the necessity for a complete disinfestation and total sanitation management strategy is paramount.

The key components to any sound management program is proper disinfestation and sanitation practices. With BioSafe Systems’ superior products, growers can achieve and maintain a clean, consistent operation.

Crop Protection

ZeroTol® 2.0 is a broad-spectrum bactericide/fungicide that be used for multiple key disinfestation applications in greenhouse and nursery production, such as foliar sprays and transplant dips. ZeroTol 2.0 eradicates plant pathogens on contact and with no known resistance, multiple applications can be made for consistent and compelling results

Soil Treatment

TerraClean® 5.0 is ideal in nursery production for soil and growing media treatments, as a drench or drip irrigation application, for eradication of plant pathogens. TerraClean 5.0 can be applied pre-plant and/or at any stage of plant growth to provide a sterile media for best production practices

Sanitation / Disinfection

SaniDate® 5.0 is a versatile sanitizer/disinfectant labeled to treat hard, non-porous surfaces, trays, benches, carts, equipment, tools and more to prevent cross contamination of plant and human health pathogens. SaniDate 5.0 has been the choice solution for integrated sanitation programs because of its powerful active ingredients, minimal 1-hour REI for indoor agricultural use, no rinse, and no harmful residue for easy spray-and-walk-away applications

Irrigation Water Treatment

SaniDate 5.0 is also labeled to treat irrigation water during all phases of crop production to control algae, bacteria, and fungi

BioSafe Systems’ superior products aid growers in clean-out, disinfestation and sanitation to ensure optimal conditions for crop cycles. Proudly Made in the USA. For more information and technical support, please consult your local BioSafe Systems representative, as well as always read and follow product labels.

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About BioSafe Systems

BioSafe Systems, LLC is a company leading innovations since 1998 for environmentally sustainable practices and products that protect crops, water, and people. Our success hinges on a commitment to customer service, quality research, regulatory compliance, and the willingness to adapt. BioSafe Systems is a family-owned and operated company certified by NQA to ISO 9001:2015, 14001:2015, and 45001:2018, and our products are manufactured proudly in the United States. More about BioSafe Systems