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What should cultivators do when a plant tests positive for HLVD in their facility?
TY @Wally D. of Green Garden Consulting for sending this information over to us from Oregon State University.
We have broken it down into an SOP to be used, downloadable file below.
Objective:
To establish a protocol for identifying, isolating, and managing hemp plants infected with Hop Latent Viroid (HLVD) and ensuring thorough decontamination to prevent further spread within the cultivation facility.
1. Identification of Infected Plants
1.1 Regular Monitoring:
Conduct regular inspections of all plants for symptoms indicative of HLVD, such as stunted growth, yellowing leaves, brittle branches, and reduced bud size.
Randomly test a subset of plants for HLVD at various growth stages, particularly in mothers and vegetative cuttings.
1.2 Testing:
Perform PCR testing on symptomatic plants or any plant suspected of being infected.
Test all mother plants and any plants used for cuttings before they enter the main cultivation area.
2. Immediate Action on Positive Identification
2.1 Isolation:
Immediately isolate any plant testing positive for HLVD from the main cultivation area.
Quarantine the infected plants in a separate, clearly marked area designated for HLVD-positive plants.
2.2 Removal:
Remove infected plants from the cultivation facility. Ensure they are securely bagged and disposed of in compliance with local regulations.
Do not compost or attempt to salvage any part of the infected plant.
3. Decontamination Protocol
3.1 Cleaning Tools and Equipment:
All tools and equipment used on infected plants must be cleaned immediately after use to prevent HLVD transmission.
Heat sterilization: Heat blades and tools at 320°F (160°C) for 10 minutes.
Chemical disinfection: Use 10-25% bleach solution (sodium hypochlorite) or 1000 ppm hypochlorous acid for soaking tools. Allow a minimum contact time of 10 minutes.
Avoid using ethanol, Virkon, hydrogen peroxide, and autoclaving, as these methods are not effective against HLVD.
3.2 Cleaning Surfaces:
Clean and sanitize all surfaces, including benches, trays, and floors, in the area where the infected plant was located.
Use a 25% household bleach solution or a 20% dried skim milk solution on all surfaces, ensuring a contact time of at least 15 minutes.
Power wash with soapy water followed by bleach or skim milk solution for larger equipment and surfaces.
3.3 Facility Sanitation:
Increase air exchange and filtration in the affected area to reduce the spread of any airborne particles.
Implement foot baths with bleach solution at the entry and exit points of the cultivation areas.
4. Preventative Measures
4.1 Source Control:
Only introduce new plants that have been tested and certified HLVD-free into the cultivation facility.
Separate new plants from existing stock for a minimum of two weeks and conduct testing before integration.
4.2 Mother Plant Management:
Regularly test mother plants, particularly before taking cuttings.
Replace mother plants regularly with tissue culture-derived plants that are free from HLVD.
4.3 Training:
Train all staff on recognizing HLVD symptoms and the importance of immediate reporting and adherence to sanitation protocols.
Ensure all personnel are aware of the high risk of contamination through tools and surfaces and the proper methods for cleaning and sterilization.
5. Record Keeping and Reporting
5.1 Documentation:
Maintain detailed records of all testing, including dates, results, and the actions taken.
Document the disposal of infected plants and the cleaning protocols followed for transparency and traceability.
5.2 Reporting:
Report any instances of HLVD to the appropriate regulatory bodies if required by local laws. (THIS WILL SOON BE A MANDATE IN SOME STATES)
Share information within the cultivation team to ensure that everyone is aware of the current status and any new cases.
A Guide to Sampling, Testing and Lab Selection By Dr. Ali Bektas: