Clubroot in Australia: the history and impact of Plasmodiophora brassicae in Brassica crops and research efforts directed towards its control
2014
Donald, E Caroline | Porter, I. J. (Ian J.)
Plasmodiophora brassicae , the obligate biotrophic plant pathogen causing clubroot of Brassica crops, has been present in Australia since the 1890s. The disease spread rapidly in vegetable Brassica crops, causing widespread losses during the 1980s and 1990s due to the increasing intensity of Brassica production and the extensive use of transplants. In response to the escalating problems caused by this disease in vegetable Brassica crops, a survey and pilot studies were initiated in 1993. This grew to become a coordinated national programme delivering clubroot research, development and extension to the Brassica industry until 2010. The key outcome of the programme was reduced crop losses through more effective and sustainable management of clubroot. This was achieved by the development and implementation of integrated, disease management strategies involving the use of good farm and nursery hygiene, early disease detection, application of lime (as calcium oxide) to maintain soil alkalinity, use of calcium and boron fertilizers, and strategic application of fungicides. Successful use of these integrated strategies reduced industry reliance on soil fumigants for disease control. This review details the history and impact of clubroot in Australia and research efforts directed towards its control.
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