The potential of Ascochyta caulina as b biological control agent for Chenopodium album in organic production

摘要

Application of Ascochyta cauline to Chenopodium album plants resulted in high levels of infection and leaf necrosis at high relative humidity. Biological control of C. album by A. cauline was more effective when the spores were applied in nutrient rich media (V-8 vegetable juice). Prolonged high humidity (r.h.> 95% for 20 hours after inoculation) and plant growth stage (plants must be younger than 4 leaf stage) at time of spore application are critical for successful biological control. High nitrogen levels in the plant were shown to favour high levels of infection in C. album.