Although not as well-represented in genome sequencing projects as human pathogens, phytopathogens are extremely important because of their economic impact in the field of agriculture. Our understanding of the diversity and mechanisms of virulence in plant pathogens has increased following two recent reports on the sequencing and analysis of Erwinia carotovora subsp. atroseptica [1], the causative agent of soft rot and blackleg in potatoes, and Leifsonia xyli subsp. xyli [2], which causes ratoon stunting disease in sugarcane worldwide.