Alerts
Changes to defoliation requirement for Sudden Oak Death host genera imported as unrooted cuttings
Effective from 17 October 2019Plant Import Operations are providing clarification in relevant BICON cases for host genera imported as unrooted cuttings, sourced from a country where Phytophthora ramorum and related species are known to occur, do not have to be defoliated.
Stakeholders are reminded that the defoliation of bare-rooted plants is still required to reduce the biosecurity risks associated with Phytophthora ramorum and related Phytophthora species.
Who does this alert affect:
Importers of nursery stock, as well as agents, brokers and departmental staff.
Background:
The introduction of Phytophthora species into Australian territory would have significant economic consequences. Phytophthora ramorum is one of the most destructive pathogens of oak and a range of other host plants with substantial commercial value. If introduced, this species will cause plant death and increase the cost of production due to its regulatory impact.
Further information:
Please contact Plant Import Operations on 1800 900 090 or email imports@agriculture.gov.au.
This Alert applies to the following Cases:
- Sudden oak death hosts for use as nursery stock
- Ornamental virus, Sudden Oak Death and Xylella fastidiosa hosts for use as nursery stock
- Xylella fastidiosa and Sudden Oak Death hosts for use as nursery stock
- Camellia spp. for use as nursery stock
- Xylella fastidiosa, Sudden Oak Death and Ceratocystis spp. hosts for use as nursery stock