Warning over disease threatening Croatian vineyards

ZAGREB, 4 October 2026 – Croatian agricultural authorities have issued a renewed warning over the spread of grapevine flavescence dorée, a serious disease affecting vineyards across the country.

The Ministry of Agriculture is urging everyone who owns grapevines – from commercial wine producers and hobby growers to people with individual vines around their homes – to check plants and follow prescribed measures.

The disease is considered particularly dangerous because an infected vine cannot recover.

Authorities say early detection, removal and destruction of infected vines and control of the insect that spreads the disease are essential to limiting its spread.

The disease is transmitted by the American grapevine leafhopper, known scientifically as Scaphoideus titanus.

Croatia has been dealing with the disease in a growing number of areas. By the end of 2025, its presence had been confirmed in 14 counties and the City of Zagreb, according to the Agriculture Ministry.

Officials have also warned that neglected and abandoned vineyards can become sources of infection for surrounding vineyards.

The latest guidance applies not only to large commercial vineyards but also to small and hobby plantings.

Authorities are asking owners to monitor vines for symptoms and take action rather than leaving potentially infected plants untreated.

The ministry stresses that a single infected vine can contribute to the spread of the disease to other plants.

The disease is particularly important for Croatia because vineyards and wine production form a significant part of the country’s agricultural and tourism identity.

Croatia has several internationally recognised wine-growing regions, from Istria and northern Croatia to Dalmatia and the islands.

The latest warning comes at the end of the 2026 growing season, when vineyard owners can assess vines and prepare for measures ahead of the next growing cycle.

Agricultural authorities say coordinated action is necessary because individual efforts can be undermined if infected vines remain elsewhere in the surrounding area.

Owners who suspect infection are required to notify the relevant authorities.

The Agriculture Ministry has published detailed guidance for identifying symptoms and dealing with affected vines.