Hemp is often considered a disease-free plant. However, research is being done to determine whether certain pathogens can increase to problematic levels in the field. Should disease become a significant problem in field-planted hemp, the result can be premature leaf…

Disease presence last year can indicate a risk for the same disease this year. Many pathogens overwinter in Kentucky on infected plant material or as pathogen survival structures. Poor sanitation practices can lead to an increased risk of these diseases…

Problem The plant disease diagnostic lab at the University of Kentucky’s Research and Education Center in Princeton received a sample of industrial hemp (Cannabis sativa) in late January from a grower in Christian County. The plants were growing in a…

In 2018, there were significant increases in confirmed cases of southern blight in hemp.  The fungal disease affects a wide range of plant species, as well as hemp. When stems and roots become infected, plants can wilt, decline, and/or die,…

Diseases are a major concern for greenhouse hemp growers, and they can be a factor that limits the profitable production of plants. The warm, humid greenhouse environment provides optimal conditions for reproduction of many pathogens. A good sanitation program can…

Powdery mildew can affect numerous plants, including fruit, vegetable, and agronomic crops, as well as woody and herbaceous ornamentals. Kentucky hemp is also susceptible to this disease. Plants infected early in the season can be seriously damaged, while those affected…

Hemp is often considered a disease-free plant. However, no research has been done to determine whether certain pathogens can increase to problematic levels in the field. If disease becomes a significant problem in field-planted hemp, the result can be premature…