Multiple samples are eligible for discount but cannot be purchased online. Please contact plantclinic@fera.co.uk for more information on ordering manually for the best multi-sample price.

Test for the presence of Rhizomania caused by Beet necrotic yellow vein virus (BNYVV) in soil. Symptoms seen in sugar beet crops in the UK include yellowing and wilting of leaves in the field, narrowing of the leaf blade, stunting and development of a root beard.

The virus is vectored by Polymyxa betae which has resting spores that can be carried in soil on boots, car tyres, machinery and animals. Control measures are very difficult to implement successfully, and the resting spores can be viable in soil for more than two decades. When the spores germinate the virus is transmitted into the plant roots, which once infected, are less able to take up water, which can severely affect crop yield.

Susceptible varieties infected by Rhizomania can have a reduced yield of up to 50% or more causing severe economic loss. Resistant varieties of sugar beet are now available however, enabling growers with known infected fields to reduce their risk.

When sending soil samples from outside England and Wales for testing please email the Crop health team (Crophealth@fera.co.uk) who will issue you with the relevant Letter of Authority to ensure your samples are not delayed upon entry to the UK.