Phytosanitary zones and their role in virus-free seed potato production
The article discusses establishment of special zones for the organization of virus-free seed potato production and phytosanitary requirements in relation to viral and bacterial diseases, which should be strictly controlled within the boundaries of the selected seed production zones, including diseases and pests of quarantine significance; phytopathogenic viruses, transmitted by migrating species of aphids; viruses transmitted by soil-borne nematodes and fungi, as well as the pathogenic bacteria. Particular attention is paid to the minimization of potential sources and vectors of infection, integrated application of modern diagnostics methods and effective means to prevent spreading of phytopathogens within the boundaries of the special zones for the production of the original and elite seed potato.