Screening and Evaluation of Wheat Varieties against Powdery Mildew (Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici) under field Conditions

Abstract

The powdery mildew fungi (Blumeria graminis) continue to rank among the most harmful pathogens on wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) in the world. It is becoming a disease of concern in the North Western Plains Zone, Northern Hills Zone and Southern Hills Zone of the country. Twenty six varieties of wheat were tested against powdery mildew pathogen for screening of resistant or moderately susceptible or susceptible ones. The experiment was conducted in randomized complete block with three replications. The plants were inoculated in evening with spore suspension of the pathogen. The wheat seedlings were inoculated at 25-30 days after planting which is the most vulnerable period of susceptibility. Normal agricultural practices including recommended fertilizer dose and irrigation schedule were followed. Infection types and powdery mildew severity were recorded for each of the tested variety. A wide range of reactions from resistant to highly susceptible were shown by wheat varieties whereas no any variety showed immune response. Wheat varieties K1105, K1114, K1204, K1213, K1215, K1217, K1315 and K1601 were found resistant to powdery mildew showing low infection and low level of disease severity (4.5% - 24.6%).