Help slow the spread of myrtle rust

Removal and Treatment (pdf 410 KB)

You are not required to remove infected plants. You may leave the plant in place and monitor the progress of myrtle rust on the infected plant.

Biosecurity New Zealand has useful resources on how you can choose to manage myrtle rust on your property including:

• A map to find out if your property is in an area infected with the disease
• A how to guide with images on how to remove and dispose of infected myrtle plants
• How to monitor your plant for the disease

Resource for gardeners (pdf 1016 KB)

There is no confirmed way to stop myrtles from contracting the disease, but there are some ways that you can give your plants the best chance against it. This fact sheet is designers for gardeners.

Resources for restoration planters (pdf 917 KB)

If you are planning large-scale planting and restoration programmes using myrtle plants, follow the advice in Biosecurity New Zealand's guide.

This guide was developed in collaboration with the Department of Conservation and local council representatives.

Susceptible myrtle plants list (pdf 477 KB)

A list of susceptible myrtle plant species based on data collected in Australia.

Resources for schools

The Science Learning Hub – Pokapū Akoranga Pūtaiao links New Zealand scientists with school students, teachers and community audiences. Content is developed by teachers, teacher educators and multimedia experts working closely with New Zealand’s scientists, technologists and engineers.

Their myrtle rust page has information specifically designed for schools.

Reducing impacts through plant selection – advice for plant growers and buyers (pdf 275 KB)

This advice is for those who grow, supply, specify or buy plant stock, so that they can be informed of the risks associated with growing susceptible Myrtaceae, and recommend alternatives to increase disease resilience.

Resource for gardeners - December 2019 (pdf 217 KB)

A practical resource for New Zealand gardeners to help identify myrtle rust and protect their myrtles, including pōhutukawa, rātā and ramarama.