Varietal diversification and disease management
2001
Mundt, C.
One of several strategies to extend the longevity of host-plant resistance is to grow mixtures of plants that possess different race-specific resistance genes. After many years of discussion, the diversity approach is beginning to be applied in commercial agriculture. The efficacy of mixtures for disease control is affected by spatial scale, with mixtures performing better in commercial production than in small-scale experimental plots. Limited field observations have not detected rapid selection for pathogen races with multiple virulence genes in host mixtures, though mixtures should be managed to avoid such an occurrence. Identification of useful variety combinations with functional diversity requires knowledge of both host and pathogen populations, as well as significant field testing. Diversity of crops, diversity of people, and diversity of lighthouse approaches are all needed, at different spatial scales, to contribute to the sustainability of disease management through host diversity.
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