Effect of different sowing dates on Cercospora beticola infection level

Abstract

Cercospora leaf spot caused by the fungus Cercospora beticola is the most significant foliar disease of sugar beet in Serbia. Measures to reduce damage of this disease are based on the use of tolerant varieties, crop rotation and fungicide application. Climate changes and the resistance of Cercospora beticolastrains to fungicides from the strobilurin group further complicate the fight against this disease. In extremely favourable years for the development of disease with high temperatures and precipitation during the summer months, growers in Serbia perform 4-8 fungicide treatments.