Phytoplasma disease threatens Croatian vineyards

A phytoplasma infection, known as grapevine golden yellowing, is causing significant damage to vineyards across Croatia. The disease has been confirmed in 14 counties, with some vineyards losing more than half of their plantings.

Experts note that the disease is spread by the American leafhopper, which thrives in neglected vineyards. Once a vine is infected, there is no cure; the affected vines must be cut down and uprooted to prevent further spread. This process leads to long-term economic losses, as replanted vines require three to five years to reach full production.

Agricultural officials and professors from the Faculty of Agriculture in Zagreb are urging growers to monitor for symptoms such as curled, brittle leaves and stunted shoots. They emphasize that maintaining and clearing abandoned vineyards is critical, as these areas serve as major sources of infection for healthy neighboring crops.