Fusarium tabacinum (Beyma) W. Gams, Fusarium oxysporum Schlect, Fusanum solani Martius. and Botrytis cinerea (Pers.) En. were isolated from rotted flower buds whereas B. cinerea and F. tabactinum were isolated from necrotic spots on the petals of flowers of Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae Banks) for the first time in Egypt. All isolated fungi were tested for their pathogenic effect. B. cinerea was the most destructive pathogen on buds and flowers followed by F. tabacinum and F. oxysporum. These pathogenic fungi are the first record in Egypt.
Growth of the three Fusaria and B. cinerea on P.D.A. medium were inhibited by low concentration of Benlate-50 (10 ppm) while Ronilan 50. Sumisclex 50 and Dithane M. 45 were effective on W. cinerea only at 50 ppm.
Under field conditions. Ronilan 50. Sumisclex 50 and Benlate 50 were the most effective of all fungicides in reducing bud rot, and flower necrotic spots on petals infection followed by Topsin M 70 and Dithane M 45. |
