Leaf Spot Disease of Magnolia Champaca L.: Symptomatology, Pathogen Characterization, and Disease Management

Leaf spot symptoms were observed in Suchiparn Nursery at Latur on seedlings of Magnolia Champaka L. Present paper deals with symptomatology, characterization, identification of the pathogen based on symptoms, pathogenicity, and management leaf spot disease (Agrios, 2005). The pathogen was isolated on Potato Dextrose Agar (PDA) and identified as Pestalotiopsi salgeriensis on the basis of symptoms and their spore cultural and microscopic characteristics. Pathogenicity was confirmed by Koch's postulates. In vitro evaluation of three different types of fungicides [(Mancozeb 75% WP (Indofil M-45), Carbendazim 50% WP (Bavistin), and Captan 50% WP (Captaf) were determined. These chemicals were used for the poisoned food technique at the concentrations of 10, 25, 50, and 100 ppm. Among them Carbendazim was found to be superior against mycelial growth (68.32%) showing maximum inhibition at 25 ppm. The study recommended the use of Carbendazim 50% WP for effective management of leaf spot disease in M. champaca. (Vincent, 1947))