Brian Leicester

The Problem Of Nematodes In Carrot Crops Typically found in coarse-textured soils, Nematodes are a common pest in New Zealand’s carrot-growing areas. Root knot is the predominant species, but many other species such as – cyst, lesion, sting, needle, and stubby root – can also be found. Nematodes attack developing carrot roots, resulting in damage …

The following reports the results of recent research carried out by Brian Leicester (Leicesters Soil Solutions) and Dr. John Washington (US-based plant pathologist and microbiologist, and research and development director at the Trical Group, based in Florida, USA) into soil biome in apples, melons and blueberries in New Zealand. These results relate to the 2022 …

Research results are now available here Soil fumigation has been an important tool in New Zealand crop production for decades because it is highly effective at managing soil pests that cause crop disease. However, it is often criticized by some for being detrimental to soil health. There is a persistent myth that soil fumigants harm …

What is soil preparation? Soil preparation methods have been used for many years to create a firm, weed-free seedbed for the rapid planting & germination of seeds. While it may be one of the more time-consuming tasks on the agricultural calendar, its also the most effective, cost-efficient method for creating a healthy growing environment. For …

What Is Pink Rot? Pink Rot And Its Effect On Potato & Carrot Crops Pink Rot (Phytophthora Erythroseptica) is an aggressive plant pathogen which is particularly prevalent in moist soil during hot, dry years. First recorded in Ireland, the disease has since extended to countries across the world – including New Zealand – where it …

What Is Crown Rot? Crown Rot And Its Effect On Strawberry Crops Phytophthora Cactorum is a soil-inhabiting plant pathogen which has grown in prominence over the last 10 to 15 years. Often confused with Anthracnose Crown Rot (both are similar, though they exhibit different symptoms, which we’ll explore in more detail below), it’s Phytophthora Cactorum that can …

What Is Fusarium Wilt? Fusarium wilt is one of the most serious watermelon diseases. This post describes the cycle and symptoms of Fusarium wilt and offers management recommendations.