UC Agriculture and Natural Resources (UCANR) is offering free pathogen testing to growers. This program is supported by the California Leafy Greens Research Board and provides no-cost testing for pathogens submitted to the UC Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Monterey County office in Salinas. 

Soilborne pathogens, Pythium and INSV Infections

Soilborne pathogens pose a significant threat to the lettuce industry, causing diseases such as Fusarium wilt, Verticillium wilt, lettuce drop, Botrytis crown rot, black root rot, and others. The increase of pathogens like Pythium and INSV has complicated disease management in the Salinas Valley, especially as these diseases often co-occur. Pythium wilt in lettuce, for example, has become more common in recent years, sometimes complicating the diagnosis since it often occurs alongside INSV. Symptoms of INSV on lettuce include brown to dark brown necrotic spots which sometimes resemble burn damage caused by pesticide or fertilizer. A diagnostic service that provides precise detection of INSV in lettuce is critical. This highlights the need for reliable, rapid diagnostics like those offered through the UCANR program, which helps growers distinguish between different diseases and apply the correct management practices. Read more on Pythium wilt in lettuce here. 

No-Cost Diagnostic Service 

The free testing program aligns with ongoing efforts to better understand and control these diseases. With the support of industry partners, the diagnostic lab continues to innovate and expand its capabilities, offering a valuable resource to the agricultural community. 

For more information on how to submit an anonymous sample for disease diagnostics, please click here. Contact Yu-Chen Wang ([email protected]) at UC Cooperative Extension for more questions.