HLB Summit Updates California Growers

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Citrus growers received updates at a huanglongbing (HLB) technology summit on the status of the disease in California and the challenges they face in the detection process. Researchers and professors presented at the HLB summit what they believe needs to be done in California to avoid the devastation other states have seen from the disease.

HLB Summit Updates California Growers

University of California Davis professor Dr. Carolyn Slupsky talked to growers at the event about the difference between direct and indirect testing methods for HLB. Direct testing measures the amount of bacteria that causes HLB in the DNA of a tree. Indirect testing measures the reactions the bacteria causes the tree to have. She says there are challenges with the current direct test and a combination of tests is probably the best practice for monitoring.

Citrus Insider: Information About the Disease
Huanglongbing (HLB) is caused by a bacterium that can be transmitted by an insect called the Asian citrus psyllid or by grafting infected plant material. HLB symptoms in citrus include asymmetrical, blotchy yellowing of leaves, small asymmetrical fruit with bitter juice that easily fall off of the tree and eventually tree death. Research is underway to find a cure. HLB has been detected in the Hacienda Heights and San Gabriel areas of Los Angeles County. Citrus trees throughout the state are in danger. It is essential to control the psyllid so it doesn’t find and spread the disease. Find out more at citrusinsider.org