Sharka, caused by Plum pox virus (PPV), reduces yield quality and quantity in susceptible stone fruit cultivars. In severe cases it can cause complete yield loss and tree decline. In Slovenia, sharka is present in all stone fruit growing regions and can not be eradicated any more. The best way to ensue successful production in future is the introduction and growing of tolerant and resistant cultivars. PPV isolates are very diverse and have been assigned in 7 strains. They differ in pathogenicity, host range, aphid transmissibility, and geographic distribution; therefore data about susceptibility and resistance of varieties differ among authors from different countries. Susceptibility against sharka must thus be tested under local growing conditions. Based on literature data and experience of Slovene researchers and experts a method for testing stone fruit cultivars for susceptibility against PPV suitable for Slovenia has been developed.
COBISS.SI-ID: 3967592