Diseases of Potato

Abstract

Potato production is seriously compromised due to prevalence of a number of diseases and they are the major constraints in potato production resulting in significant yield reduction. Integrated disease management of potato includes regular inspection for healthy seed or nursery, crop production, correct identification of the problem, cultural practices (crop rotation, sanitation etc.), biological control, soil fumigation (if necessary), seed or nursery stock treatment and disinfestations of cutting tools. Due to the ever increasing number of new fungicide resistant fungal pathogens, proper and timely diagnosis of potato diseases is becoming paramount to effective disease management, and growers need up-to-date information to help make important decisions on optimal use and timing of pesticides and other control options.