Scorch Virus

Blueberry scorch virus (BIScV) is a problematic virus for highbush blueberry in New Jersey, Oregon, Washington, and British Columbia. The disease is widespread in all the growing regions of BC: Lower Mainland/Fraser Valley, Vancouver Island, Kootenay, and the Okanagan. Scorch virus causes plant damage and eventual death, but does not impact fruit. Fruit from affected bushes is safe to eat and poses no risk to consumers. 

Scorch virus infections in blueberry fields throughout BC are reaching a critical point. If left unmanaged, this will impact the entire industry, so your immediate action is needed to contain the spread and protect your fields.  

The Council is taking action on this issue by funding research and engaging in dialogue with industry experts and government officials to find solutions.

To learn more about scorch virus and how you can limit the spread, please take a look at the resources below.

 

Scorch Virus Fact Sheets

 

See an introductory video below:

 

 

If you see any sign of the virus in your field, get it tested immediately. There are two ways to do this:

  • Submit samples to Phyto Diagnostics laboratory for virus testing.

Phyto Diagnostics Company Limited
9381 Ardmore Drive
North Saanich, BC V8L 5G4

* The lab requests that you send plant samples at the beginning of the week to avoid processing delays. 

 

  • Drop your samples off at the BC Blueberry Council office. (NO LONGER ACCEPTING SAMPLES)

 

Click below for guidance on how to take samples in your field.

 

Video note: 
  • Spraying is for demonstration purposes only and no chemicals were sprayed during the making of this video. Follow all WorkSafe requirements  to ensure the safety of your workers when applying herbicides.

 

What to do if your plant test results are positive for the Scorch virus:

1. Control the spread - When left unmanaged for multiple years, scorch virus can infect and kill many bushes within a field and in neighbouring fields, as the virus can be spread by aphids. Aphid management immediately following bloom is thus critical to reduce the spread of scorch virus. Manage aphids in high risk fields now that bloom is over, once all beehives have been removed from the fields.

2. Plant management and removal- if you don't have time or resources to remove the plant immediately, plants can be removed during the winter. However, you must prune all growth back and spray with a herbicide as per the instructions in the video below. Do not allow these plants to regrow.  

Note: If your plant samples test positive for Shock virus, no action is required as the plant will recover.  



Click below to learn the steps to take after receiving a positive test result.

 

 
 

*Results will be provided to you within 2 weeks of sample submission.

*The BC Blueberry Council and their representatives accept no liability for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided.

*All information submitted will remain confidential.