Ramularia Leaf Spot - Beet

Ramularia beticola

Severe infestations of Ramularia leaf spot (Ramularia beticola) can cause significant defoliation in beet crops. It is first seen as light brown angular spots with dark-brown to reddish margins. Infected leaves turn yellow and die.

Main Host

Fodder beet.

Symptoms

First seen as light brown angular spots (4-7 mm in diameter) on older leaves. When mature, these spots have a dark brown-reddish margin with silvery-white centres. Under magnification, white sporulation can be seen. Infected leaves turn yellow, become necrotic and die.

Life Cycle

Survives on infected crop residue. Spores are spread by wind and splash dispersal. Infections occur at high humidity and mild temperatures (17-20ºC).

Weather Conditions

Favoured by wet, humid and mild weather conditions.

Economic Impact

Ramularia can cause significant defoliation if persistent favourable climatic conditions occur.

Control

Escolta has a label claim for the control of Ramularia.

Ramularia infection beet — Ramularia infection

Early Ramularia infection beet — Early Ramularia infection

Related Pests

Beet Rust

Uromyces beticola

Favoured in cool and wet seasons, Beet rust (Uromyces beticola) is commonly seen in beet crops. Characteristic symptoms are raised red pustules on leaves. Severe infestations can lead to leaf loss and reduce yields.

Cercospora

Cercospora beticola

Favoured by wet and humid seasons, Cercospora leaf spot (Cercospora beticola) is the most economically damaging disease of beet crops. Epidemics can cause the complete loss of crop leaves and dramatically reduce yields.

Powdery Mildew - Beet

Erysiphe betae

Powdery mildew (Erysiphe betae) is commonly seen in New Zealand beet crops as greyish-white mycelium on leaves. Favoured by hot weather, severe attacks can significantly reduce yields and feed value of fodder beet crops.