Ban on planting, maintenance of host plants and production of myrtle are among the highlights
The Department of Agriculture and Supply of São Paulo (SP) published two resolutions this week that intensify actions to combat greening, a disease that threatens the global citrus industry. Resolution No. 23/2025 prohibits the planting and maintenance of plants that host the bacteria in all properties maintained or managed by the department. Resolution No. 24/2025 prohibits the production and planting of myrtle seedlings, as well as the sale, transportation and use of myrtle in urban landscaping in public and private areas throughout the state of São Paulo, except for plants intended for scientific research and duly registered with the Agricultural Defense Coordination (CDA).
According to the department's secretary, Guilherme Piai, the new resolutions are a crucial step in the fight against greening. "By prohibiting the planting of host plants and regulating myrtle, we are protecting our citrus industry and guaranteeing the future of citrus production in São Paulo," he adds.
23 Resolution
According to Resolution 23, the cultivation of species Citrus spp, Fortunella spp, poncirus app and the Murraya paniculata remains permitted only for scientific research purposes, provided that researchers adopt safe measures to control the disease and the insect vector, the psyllid diaphorina citri , and ensure the phytosanitary safety of citrus crops.
The resolution also does not apply to the commercial cultivation of these species, as long as the nurseries are duly registered with the Agricultural Defense Agency. However, the commercial production of myrtle on properties owned by the Secretariat is prohibited.
24 Resolution
Resolution No. 24 prohibits the production and planting of myrtle seedlings and stems, as well as the sale, transportation and use of myrtle in urban landscaping in public and private areas throughout the state of São Paulo, except for plants intended for scientific research and duly registered with the CDA. If there is a need for interstate transportation of myrtle, it must be carried in a closed vehicle, with a tax document and a Plant Transit Permit (PTV).
The display of myrtle at events such as fairs and exhibitions must also have prior authorization from the Agricultural Defense. Failure to comply with the legal norm will result in penalties provided for in State Decree 45.211 of September 2000.
Other measures
In 2024, the state's Agricultural Defense Coordination (CDA) carried out 1743 HLB inspections, totaling 4.502.358 seedlings removed. The actions are based on current legislation, which establishes strict defense measures.
Furthermore, seeking to expand the knowledge base and promote innovation in the sector, the Center for Applied Research in Innovation and Sustainability in Citrus Farming (CPA) was created. With an expected investment of R$90 million over the next five years, the CPA's mission is to promote the formation of new research groups and consolidate existing initiatives, with a priority focus on tackling greening.
The initiative is the result of a partnership between the Secretariat of Agriculture and Supply (SAA), Fundecitrus, the São Paulo State Research Support Foundation (FAPESP) and the Luiz de Queiroz College of Agriculture (Esalq/USP).
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