Description
Downy mildew is a fungal disease that causes destruction of leaves, stems, and flowers of the infected plant. Downy mildew causal organism is called Peronosporasparsa and as the scientific name indicates, the production of spores is sparse and therefore this disease is difficult to diagnose and control.
- Downy mildew (Oomycete fungi) are referred to as a high risk pathogens because of the following factors;
- Oomycetes fungi are able to spread in an explosive manner under favorable conditions.
- Short development cycle (8-10 days under optimum conditions)
- High potential for reproduction (high quantities of spores)
- Wide propagation by water and wind
- Damage is not reversible: The damaged tissues die in general leading quickly to substantial losses at harvest
- High genetic variability: Rapid appearance of strains less sensitive to specifically acting fungicides possible.