symptoms showing in definite patterns, only in certain rows or parts of rows? “If so, itmay be the result of some


management practice such as herbicide or fertilizer damage. If only scattered plants are affected amidst perfectly normal plants, then scorch or shock virusmay be the cause,” he said. Next, look at each plant for


particular symptoms, such as yellowing or chlorosis of the leaves; blighting, burning and/or distortion of leaves. If flowers are present, is there blighting or collapse? Assess the canes and shoots for


lesions and cankers including looking for internal discolouration under the bark. “It’s important to note whether the


symptoms are occurring on the whole plant or only on individual canes and shoots. If the whole plant is showing decline, it is likely a root or crown problem. If only parts of the plant are dying and/or declining and there are still some normal canes and shoots, it is likely a cane or branch problem,” he said. If a root problemis suspected, pull


Mark Sweeney


on the plant to see whether or not it’s well- rooted. It should not give readily, but should be well-anchored. Carefully dig up


the plant trying not to break roots.Wash the roots with a high pressure hose to


remove soil and closely examine the roots. If a whole plant sample is to be submitted to the diagnostic lab, carefully dig and bag the plant, retaining asmuch soil as possible, he advised. Generally, declines can be attributed


to pests and diseases such as viruses, root rot, weevils, nematodes or cankers; weather issues such as too much rain resulting in waterlogged soils; planting onmarginal sites with poor drainage;management by new growers who have not done proper land preparation and planting; new varieties whichmay bemore susceptible to disease; or a complex of


these issues, stated Sweeney. He warns that good field planning


can preventmany field problems. It’s important to choose suitable soils, provide adequate drainage and follow good generalmanagement practices. Carefulmonitoring will ensure


problems are detected and identified early before severe damage is done. The following are some of themore


common causes of decline and how to recognize them:


ChronicallyWet Soils If fields are exposed to frequent


flooding and high water tables during spring and fall when active growth is still occurring, plants will gradually go into decline. An inspection of the root systemwill show an absence of fibrous, feeder roots. This is not because of a pathogen but because the roots have been asphyxiated (starved for oxygen) and in turn experienced a slow death. The solution is to improve the drainage in the field.


Soil Structure/


Compaction This is a problemwhere crops have been planted in heavy textured (clayey)


British Columbia Berry Grower • Summer 2013 15


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