Boost to beat bean stem pest
Boost to beat bean stem pest
BEAN growers are set to benefit from extra protection against stem nematode with the launch of a new seed quality certificate by NIAB.
The voluntary scheme will recognise bean seed suppliers that are keen to combat the pest, says Stephen Flack, NIABs pulse seed certification specialist.
"This pest has become an important problem recently for growers of field beans and can cause major yield losses."
The NIAB Quality Bean Seed Certificate will be issued for all categories of certified bean seed that have been tested by NIAB-accredited laboratories.
Bean stem nematode (Dityl-enchus dipsaci) is a soil-borne pest that can be transferred to uninfested sites through seed and can cause total yield loss.
The certificate will be produced in time for the 2002/03 crop. *