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Vineyard Threat in Burgenland: American Cicadas and Grape Disease
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The American vineyard cicada, a seemingly harmless insect, is posing a important threat to viticulture in Burgenland, Austria, by transmitting the incurable golden yellow yellowing disease.
By Amelia Schneider | ELTENDORF – 2025/06/20 09:59:53
In the hochkogel region near Eltendorf, in the Jennersdorf district, the Uhudler grapes are approaching ripeness. However, these berries are attracting not only wine enthusiasts but also the American vineyard cicada, which deposits its larvae on the vine leaves. These insects can spread the golden yellow yellowing disease, an incurable ailment that can severely damage and ultimately destroy grapevines. Once a vine is infected, it cannot be saved.
Daniel Pachinger from the Chamber of Agriculture notes that infected vines exhibit early leaf discoloration and a characteristic roof tile-like curling of the leaves. “subsequently, the plants lose their productivity and become sources of infection for the next disease cycle,” explains Pachinger.
Regular Checks Underway
Currently, there are three confirmed zones of infestation in Burgenland, specifically in the municipalities of eltendorf, Heiligenkreuz, and Gaas. To control the spread, the official crop protection service of the Chamber of Agriculture is conducting regular inspections, closely examining 400 vine leaves per inspection.
If an infestation is detected, the affected vine must be removed. Following removal, an infestation and security zone is established within a 500-meter radius. According to Pachinger, monitoring efforts are then concentrated in this zone to ensure a rapid and effective response during the growing season.
Situation tense in Styria
While the economic impact in Southern Burgenland has been limited thus far, the situation is more critical in neighboring Southeast Styria, where entire vineyards have been removed in recent years. Josef Pfeiffer,a winemaker in Eltendorf,expresses his concern,emphasizing that the cicadas transmit an incurable plasma disease to the vines and that targeted control measures are essential.
“Due to the rising temperatures and the increasing number of unkempt vineyards,the vineyards find ideal conditions,”
According to Pfeiffer,the problem is partly self-inflicted.”Due to the rising temperatures and the increasing number of unkempt vineyards, the vineyards find ideal conditions,” says Pfeiffer. He adds that overgrown vineyards, in particular, become breeding grounds for the insect, facilitating its spread. Despite the concerning situation, experts do not believe that this year’s wine and Uhudler harvest in Burgenland is in jeopardy.
Frequently Asked Questions:
What is golden yellow yellowing disease?
Golden yellow yellowing is an incurable disease affecting grapevines, caused by phytoplasmas and transmitted by insects like the American vineyard cicada. it leads to yellowing of leaves, reduced productivity, and eventual death of the vine.
How is the disease spread?
the disease is primarily spread by the American vineyard cicada, which carries the phytoplasmas from infected vines to healthy ones.
What measures are being taken to control the spread of the disease?
Measures include regular inspections of vineyards, removal of infected vines, and establishment of security zones around affected areas. Targeted control of the insect vector is also essential.
