February 5, 2000
Question: How concern should I be about citrus canker? Has the disease been detected in our area?
- Ray Parado, Estero
Answer: Florida’s citrus is an eight billion dollar industry. The establishment of citrus canker in the state would mean higher pesticide and production cost and a dramatic reduction of our international market shares, especially that of grapefruit. The disease is symptomatic on the leaves, fruits and stem of a wide variety of citrus. Grapefruit is most susceptible. Dancy, Temple and Satsuma varieties are least affected. The disease has been detected in eastern Collier County. It has not been encountered in Lee nor Charlotte Counties. Several hundred inspectors have been hired to track and help contain the disease. If you are approached by an inspector, be supportive, the industry depends on our cooperation.
- Stephen Brown is a horticulture agent with the Lee County Extension. To submit questions call the horticulture desk at 461- 7504 between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. or via e-mail at shb@gnv.ifas.ufl.edu. Listen to the ‘Garden Show" at 8 a.m. on 1200-AM
WINK/WNOG.