Plant guide:ðĨ Kiwi
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Fungal
Bacterial Canker (Psa) on Kiwi Vines
Commonly affects: Actinidia deliciosa, A. chinensis (Kiwi)
Reddish-brown, angular leaf spots with yellow halos appear, along with cane cankers that ooze a rust-red bacterial exudate, and entire canes or the whole vine can collapse in severe cases.
Potential Causes
- 1Pseudomonas syringae pv. actinidiae (Psa) bacteria, a devastating global kiwi pathogen
- 2Wind-driven rain spreading bacteria between vines and orchards
- 3Wounds from pruning, frost, or hail giving the bacteria entry points
Solution Steps
- 1Remove and destroy severely affected canes or whole vines, disposing of material away from the growing area
- 2Disinfect pruning tools with a bleach or alcohol solution between every cut
- 3Avoid pruning during wet weather or immediately before rain is forecast
- 4Apply copper-based bactericide sprays preventively, especially after storms or frost events
Prevention Tip
Psa spreads fastest through wounds during wet, windy weather â avoid pruning right before rain and always disinfect tools between cuts.
