Blueberry Rust

Blueberry Rust is a disease caused by the fungus Pucciniastrum vaccinii, and affects blueberries, cranberries, huckleberries and hemlock. The first symptoms are distinct yellow lesions, with pustules turning a brown reddish colour later in the season. In severe cases, the entire leaf surface may eventually die. The disease has been reported in Europe, Argentina, Asia, Mexico, Canada and the USA. In Australia, the disease is present only in NSW. In order to prevent the entry of the disease into Victoria, legislation was introduced in 2002 which placed restrictions and conditions on the importation of materials which may carry the disease into Victoria. These materials include: plants - Vaccinium spp. (including blueberry, cranberry and huckleberry), Gaylussacia, hemlock, Rhododendron (including azalea), Lyonia, Menziesia, Pernettya, Hugeria, Pieris, Leucothoe, Oxycoccus, and any agricultural equipment or packaging used in the farming or subsequent processing of these plants. Victorian blueberry growers are surveyed for the disease on a regular basis by Plant Standards Branch, and as yet blueberry rust has not been detected. For more details contact the DPI Plant Standards Branch on (freecall) 1800 084 881 or email on plant.standards@dpi.vic.gov.au.