István Nagy: the most decisive action must be taken against the American grape cicada that spreads golden yellow infection

(Photo: drnagyistvan.hu)

He said that the pathogen is already present in 15 wine regions, therefore, comprehensive, coordinated action must be implemented in order to curb, stop, eradicate, and eliminate the disease. Protection and prevention against the infection cannot be postponed – stated István Nagy. He explained that the disease has appeared in Hungary due to climate change. The infection came to the vineyard areas from the south and is moving further and further north, which is why it first affected Zala County, then the South Balaton wine region and Badacsony. István Nagy emphasized that the government has adopted a comprehensive action plan on the subject. The most important thing now is to detect the infection so that we can know where it is. In the fall, state-run spraying is carried out in the most infected areas, and in the spring, in the entire country’s vineyards. He noted that it is difficult that spraying must be done with natural active ingredients in organic and eco areas, and with chemical active ingredients in other areas.

I would like to get farmers to cut down the infected vines and plant new ones, but with a clone that is guaranteed to be virus- or phytoplasma-free

István Nagy said in the Kossuth radio program Good morning, Hungary! that they are trying to curb and stop the spread of the disease affecting vineyards by implementing a comprehensive action plan. He called detection important, which is also being helped by establishing groups of 6-8 experts in the settlements. In the action plan, the government has allocated a financial fund worth 3.8 billion forints. If the infection exceeds 30 percent of the plantation, the entire plantation must be cut down and replanted. The infection does not pose a threat to humans, but it could mean a significant reduction in the wine industry’s annual revenue of 150-200 billion forints, a loss of billions, the minister pointed out.

MTI