Institut für Züchtungsforschung an gartenbaulichen Kulturen
The species of the Lavandula family are popular as an ornamental plant, for culinary and medicinal purposes. However, root and crown rot caused by Phytophthora spp. has become a major threat to the lavender industry worldwide (Dlugos et al. 2024). Symptoms include grey discoloured leaves, blackened roots and vascular discolouration in roots and stems. Jeffers et al. (2016) also documented signs of rotting in the root crown. In ornamental plant cultivation in Europe, up to five species (P. nicotianae, P. citrophthora, P. palmivora, P. cactorum, P. cinnamomi) have been described as significant pathogens in lavender (Lavandula spp.), which is why the workd with the collection of infected lavender roots. Using a selective V8 medium, the developing Phytophthora strains will be isolated and analysed by PCR at the species level. The selected strains will then be used to establish a resistance test on cuttings. The results of this research will form the basis for the evaluation of genetic resources of lavender and consequently for successful resistance breeding.
Federal Ministry of Agriculture, Food and Regional Identity
