Genotype and Approved Fungicide Evaluation for Reducing Leaf Spot Diseases in Organically-Managed Peanut
Growers interested in organic peanut (Arachis hypogaea) production need information to identify genotypes and acceptable fungicides for control of early and late leaf spot where synthetic pesticide applications are absent. Field trials were conducted in 2008-2010 to evaluate eleven peanut genotypes for leaf spot resistance and yield potential under organic management. CRSP 983 and Georganic demonstrated the greatest resistance to early and late leaf spot (18 to 59% and 34 to 52% defoliation, respectively), but Florida-07, Georgia-06G, and Tifguard produced the largest yields (2454 to 5424 kg/ha, 3758 kg/ha, and 1760 to 4030 kg/ha, respectively). Tifguard exhibited the best combination of stand establishment, disease resistance, and yield potential of all genotypes and would be a strong option for growers pursuing organic production. Florida-07 and Georgia-06G are also formidable options. A secondary objective was to evaluate the efficacy of three approved fungicides for leaf spot control on peanut under organic management. Copper sulfate + Bacillus subtilis reduced leaf spot defoliation compared to the control. Yet, all three fungicides improved yields under heavy leaf spot pressure. Combining high-yielding, disease-resistant cultivars and organically approved fungicides can significantly improve leaf spot management and yield potential of peanut under organic management. Accepted for publication 2 September 2011. Published 27 October 2011.