Resistance to Phytophthora root rot in contemporary rhododendron cultivars

Abstract

Fifty-seven rhododendron cultivars (genus Rhododendron L.) were screened for resistance to root rot caused by Phytophthora cinnamomi, using two levels of inoculum. While a majority (77%) of genotypes was susceptible, six cultivars had moderate resistance, and seven cultivars exhibited a high level of resistance to the disease. In these resistant groupings, the severity of root rot did not increase significantly with a 3-fold increase in inoculum. Comparisons of micropropagated and conventionally propagated plants revealed no significant difference in root rot ratings. The species R. keiskei was identified as a possible source of resistance to P. cinnamomi in two of the rhododendron cultivars.