Myrtle Rust threat

Keep an eye out for Myrtle Rust

You may not have heard of the plant disease Myrtle Rust, but it has the potential to devastate plant stocks in our TRC nurseries and destroy a variety of plants in our parks and gardens (as well as in our private homes).

This message is to ask residents to keep an eye out for the disease in their own yards and to act quickly if it is discovered. One home in Toowoomba has already been identified as having it.

What is Myrtle Rust?

Myrtle rust is a serious fungal disease caused by 'uredo rangelli', that affects plants in the Myrtaceae family, including Lilly Pillies [syzygium], Bottlebrush[Callistemon] and Eucalyptus species.

Myrtle Rust is a notifiable disease.

A training CD and a limited-use permit and pamphlets, for the identification and control of Myrtle Rust will be forwarded to district offices and those within Parks and Rec, as well as the Toowoomba Service Centre.

If you suspect you have discovered Myrtle Rust, don't try to remove it. Report it to Bio-security Qld.

For more Information and ID photos, go to the Bio-security Qld website www.dpi.qld.gov.au/4790.htm

Myrtle Rust will move freely from home garden to bushland and vice-versa so please watch for any signs.

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