KENTUCKY: With setting time quickly approaching, Kentucky growers should be mindful of troublesome diseases that travel with their tobacco transplants. According to the University of Kentucky, highly damaging blue mold and target spot are expected to be prevalent this year, which can cause significant yield losses in the field.

Blue mold has already been identified as an issue this year in transplants from Georgia greenhouses. Since blue mold moves northward on weather patterns, growers should inspect their transplants closely for partially or fully necrotic leaves with darkened veins.

A preventative Quadris^® fungicide application during transplant production or at first indication that blue mold is in the area can help manage the disease. Actigard^® 50WG fungicide can also help prevent blue mold once plants reach 12 to 18 inches in height.

Target spot commonly affects transplants and lingers in the field, making it a threat from year to year. Transplants affected with target spot have small lesions with clear centers that expand as the leaves grow. A single application of Quadris during first or second clipping prior to transplanting can help prevent the spread of target spot.

It’s important to be proactive when combating tobacco transplant diseases. Using fungicides, when necessary, can help maximize return on investment and protect tobacco crops.

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