Augmenting Fungicidal Activity of Tetraconazole with Chemosensitization Agents for Cercospora Leaf Spot Management

Abstract

Cercospora beticola (Sacc.) is the causal agent of Cercospora leaf spot (CLS). CLS is considered to be one of the most destructive foliar diseases of sugar beet in the world. CLS is managed in part through resistant cultivars, crop rotation, and cultural practices, but timely fungicide applications are necessary to manage disease effectively. Heavy reliance on fungicides to manage CLS has led to the development of resistance to multiple classes of fungicides. The most widely used class of fungicides is the demethylation inhibitors (DMIs). DMI-resistant C. beticola isolates have been increasing in incidence over the past decade. Chemosensitization agents (CAs) are compounds that have little to no antifungal activity, but may increase efficacy of commercial fungicides when co-applied. CAs could lead to better management of CLS and reduced production costs.