INTEGRATED MANAGEMENT OF CANOLA DISEASES USING CULTURAL METHODS

Through suitable adjustments in cultural practices, it is possible to modify the environment or the host so that conditions become unfavoura ble for pathogens and diseases. Disease control through cultural pract ices is usually environmentally sound and needs to be emphasised in mo dern agricultural systems. In this review, the impact of various cultu ral practices on economically important diseases of canola (Brassica n apus and B. rapa) in Canada is discussed. The diseases considered are blackleg [Leptosphaeria maculans], seedling blight and root rot [Rhizo ctonia solani], sclerotinia stem rot [Sclerotinia sclerotiorum], alter naria blight or blackspot [Alternaria brassicae and A. raphani], and w hite rust and staghead [Albugo candida]. Areas where more research is required are identified.