Control of Phytophthora fragariae var. rubi
Field experiments have been carried out in Norway to study the effects of an integrated control system, including combinations of raised beds, moderate cultivar resistance, fungicide treatment, mulching and organic amendment, against Phytophthora fragariae var. rubi (EPPO A2 quarantine pest). Two raspberry cultivars (Rubus idaeus) have been used: 'Veten' (highly susceptible) and 'Chilliwack' (a less susceptible cultivar). The results showed that raised beds reduced the severity of root rot compared with flat beds. The best results for both cultivars were obtained with a combination of raised beds and metalaxyl treatment. Mulching increased the severity of the disease, even in well drained soil (raised beds). The organic amendment (sheep manure mixed in soil) had only a minor influence on raspberry root rot, and no final conclusion could be drawn from these studies as its influence appears to be rather complex.
Sources
Heiberg, N. (1995) Control of root rot of red raspberries caused by Phytophthora fragariae var. rubi.
Plant Pathology, 44 (1), 153-159.