This mite is available for use in California. After seed head and flower removal, gall infected stems may be placed against new uninfested plants, and colonization should occur. The rust has multiple generations per year and has demonstrated considerable success in California. Large cinnamon to brownish pustules form on leaves and stems of rosettes and mature plants alike. These open lesions result in stunted, deformed plants, with reduced branching and floral bud production.
Infected plants produce fewer viable seed.
This rust is available in California, and can be spread by placing infected stems in patches of healthy plants. To improve the chances of infection, spray uninfected plants with water before placing the stems or time infected stem placings with expected periods of heavy dew. It should be noted that different biotypes of rush skeletonweed have shown resistance to this rust in Australia. The narrowleaf biotype is susceptible, while the intermediate and broadleaf types appear to be resistant to the fungus. This biocontrol agent is the first example of an exotic fungus successfully used in the classical biocontrol of a weedy plant.