Research on Septoria Leaf Blotch: Recent Advances1

A review of the recent advances in research on Septoria leaf blotch is given with particular emphasis on epidemiology and control strategies. The effect of straw infected with pycnidia of Septoria tritici or perithecia of its perfect stage Mycosphaerella graminicola , infected seeds and alternative hosts on the initiation of epidemics is discussed. Reference is made to the effect of plant stature on the vertical progress of the disease. The role of fungicide protection in the control of the disease is discussed. Resistance and tolerance to Septoria leaf blotch is dealt with in more detail, with reference to the author's own research, and with implications on breeding strategies.