Code red for leaf blight in sugar beets across the country

The IRS mildew warning map has been entirely colored red since this week. The agricultural service of Cosun Beet Company also calls for attention to the development of mildews such as cercospora and rust. Last week, South Holland and West Brabant were the last areas for which a warning was issued. Sugar manufacturer Cosun points to the combination of humid conditions and summer temperatures that increase the likelihood of mildew infections and rapid expansion. Infestations affect the green parts of a beet crop and can cause considerable yield losses. The IRS advises that when mildew spots are found, a control measure should be implemented. For the growing areas of Zeeuws-Vlaanderen, Zeeland islands, and the Noordoostpolder, the IRS has repeated this week the warning for ...