Can we use information about rust seasonality to avoid spreading infection?
In 2001 (according to an informal survey by Mike Huben), plants coming from central Florida in April or earlier tended not to carry rust. Plants from May or later frequently carried rust, sometimes developing three to five months after the plant was received. If this observation can be repeated, early shipment might be a way of reducing transmission of rust. If rust infections in the north prove to be tender, and easily eradicated by winter and dormancy, then a strategy of buying after the northern bloom season would minimize rust problems.
