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The University of Idaho is warning potato growers across the Pacific Northwest to be on the lookout for ring rot. UI Extension Seed Potato Specialist Kasia Duellman said the tuber-born bacterial disease attacks crop yields, in both commercial and seed potatoes.
A common symptom of ring rot is a deteriorated vascular ring that secretes a creamy bacterial ooze when squeezed, with growth cracks commonly present in tubers. The bacterium produces a protective biofilm that allows it to survive on surfaces in a dormant state for several years, and can contaminate handling equipment, seed cutters, truck beds, machine belts and storage walls.
