Panama disease threatens Coffs Harbour banana plantations, supply of Lady Finger and Ducasse varieties at risk
TueTuesday 12
JanJanuary 2021 at 2:42am
Once Panama disease infects a farm s soil, it is almost impossible to grow a viable crop.
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A highly destructive fungal disease known for wiping out entire banana crops, is devastating plantations on the New South Wales Mid North Coast, putting local supply in jeopardy.
Key points:
Growers are concerned high rainfall will spread the disease to surrounding properties
The disease strain affects both Lady Finger and Ducasse banana varieties
The disease, Panama disease race 1, is threatening a banana supply shortage of the Lady Finger and Ducasse banana varieties.
Australia: Panama disease threatens Coffs Harbour banana plantations
A destructive fungal disease known for wiping out entire banana crops is hitting plantations on the New South Wales Mid North Coast. The disease, known as Panama disease race 1, is threatening a banana supply shortage of the Lady Finger and Ducasse banana varieties.
Coffs Harbour and District Banana Growers Association vice president Wally Gately explained how Panama disease spreads through soil movement: It s a soil-borne disease so it can move with water or it can wash down stream to another farm. It can even just be picked up on mud on tyres.