The best control, however, is to be certain to purchase clean planting stock from a state certified nursery program. Blueberry stunt is caused by a mycoplasma transmitted by the sharpnose leafhopper from wild blueberry plants. In some areas, it might be feasible to eliminate the alternate hosts, the wild blueberry plants. Several virus-borne diseases can be troublesome on blueberries. These include blueberry mosaic, shoestring, red ringspot, and necrotic ringepot.
Control is limited to purchasing clean stock and rogueing out infected plants.
Enclosed are several articles on blueberry culture. The importance of proper soil preparation, organic matter, good drainage, and the special moisture and pH requirements of blueberry plants are discussed. For specific cultural information relating to your area, please contact your local Cooperative Extension Service office. AVI Publishing Company.