USDA finds Ralstonia solanacearum race 3 biovar 2 in geranium plants
Ball FloraPlant recently received notification of a positive test result for Ralstonia solanacearum race 3 biovar 2 on Geranium Fantasia Pink Flare. The samples were sent from a grower in the United States to Michigan State University Plant and Pest Diagnostics, and confirmed positive by the USDA. The plant that tested positive was shipped from the Ball FloraPlant geranium farm in Guatemala.

Ralstonia solanacearum race 3 biovar 2 is a quarantinable pathogen (regulated plant pest) for the U.S. and Canada. Ball Seed and Ball FloraPlant are following USDA directives on how to manage production containing Geranium Fantasia Pink Flare. This quarantine includes all forms of Geranium Fantasia Pink Flare including unrooted and callused cuttings, rooted liners and pre-finished products. Additionally, the Ball FloraPlant geranium farm in Guatemala has stopped shipment of all geraniums until reinstated by APHIS-PPQ.

Ball Seed and Ball FloraPlant are coordinating with USDA-APHIS to work with growers impacted by this quarantine and to ensure appropriate protocols are followed related to disposal of the affected product and cleanup of the facility.