DISEASE IN WILLOWS

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32106, 30 September 1969, Page 10

DISEASE IN WILLOWS

Research In Canterbury A research team from the microbiology department of Lincoln College has been given 83000 by the Soil Conservation and Rivers Control , Council to investigate willow diseases in New Zealand. The grant will enable the college to continue the work begun in 1964 by the Depart ment.of Scientific and Industrial Research. , In 1962 fungal diseases were reported in willows in South Canterbury. They were killing older trees and preventing the establishment of willows from cuttings. Concern was expressed about their effect i on river-control planting and possible spread to other districts, and the council, in 1963, asked the Plant Diseases Division of the D.S.I.R. i to investigate. Because of staff leaving for overseas, the division has been unable to make a full investigation but work to date ' shows that the diseases are still not identified, nor can control methods be suggested. ‘ ' The Lincoln College team’s i work will be spread over two years, beginning next year, and will consist of a survey Of the willows in Canterbury ; followed by laboratory 1 studies. When the general pat--1 tern of the diseases is known, • more extensive surveys can be • made or a more detailed ' study of a particular disease undertaken. .