Managing the leafhopper vectors of X-disease phytoplasma post-harvest is important this season to slow the spread of the pathogen. To help cherry growers, Washington State University is out with a management plan. WSU covers the basic considerations, all while acknowledging there are many unknowns about leafhoppers; and management options will be refined as new research is completed.

Researchers note there are six leafhoppers known to transmit X-disease, three of which are common to Washington. They also cover how to identify leafhoppers, and which ones growers should be concerned about. There are roughly 20,000 leafhopper species.

In addition, WSU provides trapping basics, horticulture suggestions as well as tips when it comes to pesticide application for both traditional and organic production.

Click Here to learn more from WSU.


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