Lengthen crop rotations as much as possible. John Gallian, University of Idaho, sugarbeet specialist recommends at least a four year rotation. Use cultural practice that enhances rapid, vigorous seedling growth and canopy development. Avoid spring field compaction that reduces drainage and increases disease risk. Use of soil applied fungicides has been ineffective.
Resistant varieties are the best method of disease control.
Four rhizomania resistant varieties are approved for sale as specialty varieties in 1998. Disease severity observed in 1998 would not warrant use of a resistant variety in the RRV at this time. A very fine program is being prepared for your benefit. More details will be sent in early January. These are very technical presentations.