The Australian Mungbean Association (AMA) recommends that Mungbean producers replenish their seed lines every three years.
The detection of Halo blight in 2007 spring planted crops exemplified the issues of producers retaining their own seed onfarm.The association commenced a seed production scheme in 2005 in which seed production crops are inspected by an independent third party for Halo blight and Tan spot along with various other weed and disease contaminants. This process will reduce the occurrence of the various diseases and gives the industry confidence in the integrity of the seed supply.
Halo blight and Tan spot are seed borne diseases and for this reason growers should be purchasing seed through the AMA approved seed scheme. Seed produced under the scheme is easily identifiable by the new clearly branded bag, each seed lot is fully traceable back to the paddock of production. All inspections and history of the crop are recorded and this allows the AMA to monitor the seed scheme and in particular the reoccurrence of Halo Blight.
Trade marks and PBR legislation protect the varieties Crystal, Satin II, Emerald, White Gold, Green Diamond and Delta.
The legislation clearly states that these varieties can not be sold by non approved seed producers or seed suppliers. The distinctively printed bags with the appropriate Trade Mark or PBR logo are a safe guard as to the quality of seed. If the bag does not contain this branding you should contact your local AMA member.
Producers intending to keep their own planting seed for their own future production should consult with a Accredited Mungbean Agronomist to inspect for the incidence of disease prior to harvest. If in doubt, replacing your seed is a better alternative to potential yield loss in the following year. Accredited Mungbean Agronomists are trained in industry best production practices, including diseases detection.
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