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The Julius-Kühn-Institut (JKI) has confirmed the occurrence of the dangerous vine disease Flavescence Dorée in a German wine-growing region for the first time. The pathogen was detected in samples from the districts of Lörrach, Breisgau-Hochschwarzwald, and Ortenaukreis. The infection is reportable and poses a significant risk to viticulture.
Particularly critical is the simultaneous detection of the American Vine Leafhopper. The insect, which originates from North America, transmits the bacteria that cause the disease. The leafhopper was already discovered in 2024 in the Markgräflerland. Since the pathogen and the vector insect are now appearing together for the first time, there is a risk of local spread.
To contain the Golden Yellow Yellowing, affected vine stocks and rootstocks should be immediately uprooted, and leafhopper populations should be controlled. Wild rootstock vines are also considered a risk, as the insects and pathogens can multiply there without hindrance.
The bacteria cause yellowing, growth disturbances, and yield losses; affected vine stocks are no longer suitable for wine production. In several European countries, the disease has already caused significant damage for years. Indications from the JKI suggest that the bacteria may have been introduced through infected plant material. Whether the leafhopper has already spread the pathogen is still unclear.
On November 20, experts from plant protection services, vine breeding, plant production, and representatives of the Federal Ministry of Agriculture met for a specialist discussion at the JKI location in Siebeldingen to discuss further actions.
(ru – Image: JKI)
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