Blackleg is a bacterial infection of potato tubers and stems. While the disease is not widespread in Australia, new causal organisms have been identified over the past few years, warranting industry awareness.

In this webinar, Dr Len Tesoriero gave an overview of the symptoms and causes, disease occurrence and spread and the biology of the bacterial causal pathogens. Followed by Dr Nigel Crump who discussed management biosecurity and seed certification.

Blackleg on potato can be caused by either Pectobacterium or Dickeya species, and they often work together in different combinations to cause this disease. Blackleg can result in stem decay, severe seed decay and sometimes lack of plant emergence in severe cases. This Hort Innovation and RM Consulting Group (RMCG) factsheet provides information on managing blackleg in potato crops.