Studies on the seedborne diseases of sugar and fodder beet: A dissertation submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree of Bachelor of Agricultural Science with Honours in the University of Canterbury

Abstract

The literature on the seedborne pathogens of beet and on the diseases they cause has been reviewed including methods of seed health testing and the effect of fungicides on the pathogens in bioassay tests. The seed health status of some thirty-three tmported and local beet seedlines were evaluated. Germinations from 60 to over 90% were recorded except in one seedline (below 50%). Pleospora bjoerlinggii was detected in nine lines, most were at a low level but one was at 14 and another at 21%. Cercospora beticola was detected in three lines at 1, 6 and 15%. Alternaris alternata was detected in seventeen lines, with infection ranging from 1% to 76% Pleospore herbarum was detected in four lines with infection ranging from 1 to 17%.