Reactions of sorghum genotypes to anthracnose and grey leaf spot diseases under Sudan and Sahel savanna field conditions of Nigeria

Ten early- and 10 medium-maturing sorghum genotypes were evaluated for indi vidual and multiple resistance to anthracnose and grey leaf spot in field t rials carried out at Ajiwa (Sahel savanna) and Bagauda (Sudan savanna), Nig eria in the 1995, 1996 and 1997 wet seasons. Among the early-maturing genot ypes, five were resistant to anthracnose and two resistant to grey leaf spo t, while one genotype ICSV 901 NG had resistance to both. Among the medium- maturing, five genotypes were resistant to anthracnose and grey leaf spot w hile four of these genotypes, CGM 19/9-1-1, CEM 328/2-1-1-3, Sariasso 10 an d Gaya early (local) had low disease scores for both diseases. Further, loc al landraces had low disease susceptibility and comparable high yields indi cating the need to promote their use in areas where they are adapted to ens ure sustainable sorghum production. The study shows the availability of sor ghum genotypes with stable resistance to anthracnose and grey leaf spot wit hin Nigeria. (C) 2001 by The Haworth Press. Inc. All rights reserved.