Botanics visitors told to disinfect shoes

VISITORS to the Royal Botanic Garden are being asked to disinfect their shoes over fears about the possible spread of a dangerous plant disease.

Sudden Oak Death, or phytophthora ramorum, a highly virulent disease which mainly targets rhododendron bushes, was discovered in Scottish gardens earlier this year.

While it is primarily found on the west coast, management at the Botanics elected to place disinfectant trays at all entrances to prevent the disease getting in.

Plant pathologist Stephan Helfer said: "RBGE has been proactive in preventing its own collections from becoming infected. These collections are of great international value and an outbreak of Sudden Oak Death organisms could have devastating effects, particularly on our rhododendron collections.

"In view of this, we decided to invite the public to disinfect their footwear, especially if they are regular visitors to other public gardens."

The trays are likely to remain for several months at least.