Several plants with suspected Dickeya dianthicola symptoms have been reported in the mid-Atlantic region in spring 2017 and sent for diagnosis. The results of the tests are still pending. Growers should be vigilant in scouting their fields. If you see any suspect symptoms of blackleg, or your potatoes had poor emergence, or you believe that you have Dickeya in your field, it is important to submit the plants for diagnosis.  See more here.

Note:  Pennsylvania growers suspecting Dickeya should contact Dr. Beth Gugino, Penn State vegetable plant pathologist at bmk120@psu.edu.