Evaluating the Potential Threat to Citrus Plantings from Phytophthora Parasitica Originating from Noncitrus Hosts

Abstract

The relative virulence of Phytophthora parasitica recovered from citrus and other plants to rough lemon was investigated Isolates of Phytophthora parasitica from citrus were highly virulent to rough lemon seedlings, causing crown rot and significant reduction of root weight. Isolates of the pathogen from noncitrus hosts caused slight damage to rough lemon, with no crown rot and only minor reduction of root weight. Evidently, isolates of P. parasitica from several noncitrus hosts do not pose a serious threat to citrus groves.