Identification and management alternatives of powdery mildew in rosebush
Rose powdery mildew caused by Podosphaera pannosa affects all aerial parts of the plant, which affects their quality as a major component of economic loss. In this work, the causal agent of powdery mildew of rose was identity and confirmed, the effect of potassium phosphite (K3PO3), silicon, chitosan and dodemorph acetate on the incidence and severity of the disease was evaluated, as well as their response in the quality of flower stalks. Two trials (February to April and from May to July) were performed. The morphometric and molecular characteristics of the causal agent corresponded to Podosphaera pannosa. The K3PO3, silicon and chitosan they reduced incidence and severity compared to the control for both assays, however, only the K3PO3 and silicon, exhibited a control similar to provided by the fungicide dodemorph acetate. The treatment with chitosan increased the length and diameter of the stem and flower bud in contrast to K3PO3 and silicon, but was not significant to the control in both tests. Based on the results, the K3PO3, silicon and chitosan are alternatives for the rosebush powdery mildew management under greenhouse conditions.