Rhododendron fears
17:26 9th September 2008
Fears are mounting that the poor weather over the summer could be contributing to the spread of a fungus which could wipe out the UK's rhododendrons, according to the Daily Mail.
The Sudden Oak Death fungus mainly affects rhododendrons and viburnums and is said to be spreading in the south and west.
If the spread continues, affected plants may have to be incinerated to stop further infection.
Duchy College head of micropropagation Ros Smith explained there are fears that the weather could play a part in the disease spreading.
"It is a big worry for owners of historic gardens who may have to take out their rhododendrons," she told the paper.
"Since 2002 the fungus has been spreading across the south and west.
"When the weather is moist and mild it helps it to spread and a mild winter, wet spring and summer hasn't helped this year."
