Where and when might you spot myrtle rust? Find out in a recent webinar
Myrtle rust observations recorded on iNaturalist throughout winter suggest that symptoms vary by host and by area. This reminds us of the importance of host susceptibility and the environment (in this case, mostly climate) to disease development. Yellow pustules tell us the fungus causing myrtle rust has produced spores on the host, and these have been seen right throughout winter in some parts of New Zealand. However, it’s not just the appearance of the spores that matters – the time it took for them to appear post-infection – the ‘latent period’ – is key to understanding disease spread. If you would like to learn more about myrtle rust epidemiology, and particularly about disease spread in NZ and what we might see in the future, check out the webinar by plant pathologist Rob Beresford now available for viewing here:
And when you are out of the house on that lockdown stroll, tinkering in the garden, or lucky enough to be further afield on a hike, keep your eyes open for myrtle rust symptoms to photograph - your records matter.
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