February 9, 2003
From: Dr Clive Levy <clevy@cfu.co.zw> [edited]

Soybean rust - Zimbabwe: first report in 2004

This is just to inform everyone that soybean rust [caused by _Phakopsora pachyrhizi_] has been confirmed today (23 Jan 2004) within the Lions' Den area of Zimbabwe in several commercial plantings. This is the first confirmation of the disease for this season. There is also an unconfirmed report in the Kwekwe area (I am awaiting samples).

Although the level of severity at Lions' Den is very low, initial infection is likely to have taken place at least 15 days ago under very dry, hot conditions. The disease, however, will most likely spread very rapidly on any unsprayed crops under the very wet, humid conditions that are now prevailing.

Farmers who have not already started spraying are urged to follow fungicide control recommendations as soon as possible to avoid yield loss.

Dr Clive Levy
Plant Pathologist, CFU Commodities
Technical Team, Commercial Farmers Union of Zimbabwe <clevy@cfu.co.zw>

[I thank Clive Levy for sending this note. The piece was delayed because of computer problems, for which I apologize. - Mod.DH]