Rust disease (Melampsora epited) of willow (Salix spp.) grown as short rotation coppice (SRC) in inter- and intra-species mixtures |
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Authors: | A R MCCRACKEN W M DAWSON |
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Affiliation: | Applied Plant Science Division, Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, Newforge Lane, Belfast BT9 5PX, Northern Ireland, UK;Northern Ireland Horticulture and Plant Breeding Station, Dept of Agriculture and Rural Development, Loughgall, Co. Armagh, BT61 8JB, Northern Ireland, UK;Dept. of Applied Plant Science, School of Agriculture and Food Science, Queen's University of Belfast, Newforge Lane, Belfast BT9 5PX, Northern Ireland, UK |
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Abstract: | Twenty inter‐ and intra‐species genotypes of willows (Salix spp.) were grown in large mono‐plots and incorporated into five, 10,15 and 20–way mixtures. In each growing season from 1996 to 2001 the level of rust disease caused by Melampsora epitea was recorded on each genotype where it was growing as a mono‐plot or as part of a mixture. Three genotypes, S. schwerinii×viminalis×dasyclados’V7531′, S. schwerinii×aquatica‘V7533’ and S. viminalis‘Gigantea’ remained virtually rust free through the six yr of the trial. It is, however, argued that there are benefits of including such genotypes in a mixture in order to reduce the risk of them developing rust susceptibility. S. burjatica‘Germany’, S. dasyclados×aquatica‘V7511’ and S. dasyclados×caprea‘V794’ were severely affected by rust, although levels tended to be less when included in mixtures. The levels of rust on S. mollissima‐undulata‘SQ83’ were much higher in the first three‐year harvest cycle than during the second cycle. On a number of genotypes, e.g. S. burjatica‘Germany’ and S. dasyclados×aquatica‘V7511’ rust was more severe on the regrowth from freshly coppiced stools. |
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Keywords: | Melampsora epitea willow rust Salix mixtures |
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