Clubroot has been identified in Yellowhead County, prompting county inspections.
County officials say clubroot is a soil-borne disease that reduces yields in cruciferous species like canola, mustards and certain vegetables. The disease causes galls, or “clubs,” to form on plant roots, hindering their ability to absorb water and nutrients and thereby lowering crop yields.
New clubroot pathotypes which can overcome even resistant seeds were also identified in the Edmonton region in 2015.
Yellowhead County pest inspectors will scout for clubroot in canola and other Brassicaceae crops in the area from about Aug. 24 to Sept. 25. County officials say this scouting will follow strict prevention measures to reduce the risk of spreading the disease.
Clubroot reportedly spreads through soil movement from infected to non-infected fields. This soil can be carried by farm equipment, vehicles and water or wind erosion, making proper sanitization of machinery and equipment crucial to stopping the spread.
The county adds that crop rotation can reduce the severity of infections. For example, growing canola continuously on the same land increases the risk and severity of outbreaks.
While there is no cure for infected plants, the county recommends taking the following steps to prevent clubroot from becoming established:
- Check fields regularly for signs of clubroot such as galls or clubs on roots, premature ripening and wilting plants.
- Before moving to a new field, remove all dirt from wheels and sanitize all equipment and vehicles using a one per cent solution (99 per cent water).
- Use clubroot-resistant seed varieties when planting.
For more information, visit www.clubroot.ca or contact the Yellowhead County Agricultural Department at the Wildwood County Office at 780-325-3782 or toll-free at 1-800-814-3935.
