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Aphanomyces Root Rot New Genetics Provide Major Advancements in Alfalfa Disease Resistance What is Aphanomyces Root Rot? Aphanomyces Root Rot is a significant soil-borne disease that threatens alfalfa root development, nodulation and overall forage yield. The disease favours wet soils, especially in fields with poor drainage and/or heavy compaction. Once infected, the disease will negatively impact the alfalfa crop for the life of the stand. Producers can expect a 25-30% yield loss due to stunted plants, slow regrowth and decreased winterhardiness, leading to shorter stand life. Like any pathogen, Aphanomyces Root Rot is constantly evolving to find new ways to attack its host. Close to 30 years ago, forage breeders developed the first varieties with High Resistance to Aphanomyces Root Rot Race 1. A decade later Race 2 was identified to be limiting yield potential, even in varieties resistant to Race 1; thus, the development of varieties with High Resistance to Race 1 & 2. Today, we are noticing the same yield declines once again and the need for the next generation of disease resistance. Symptoms: • Stunted growth • Yellowing cotyledons • Yellowing/purpling of upper leaflets • Grey-brown coloured roots and stems • May resemble nutrient deficiency/herbicide damage Management: • Plant certified varieties with enhanced multi-race Aphanomyces and Anthracnose disease resistance • Fungicide seed treatments are not a solution for controlling this disease AMntulhtri-arcancoeseApdihsaenaosemyrceesisstaanndce High Resistance to Aphanomyces Race 1 ApHhiagnhoRmeyscisetsaRncaeceto1 & 2 @pickseedcanada dlfpickseed.ca

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