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ARS Home » Pacific West Area » Corvallis, Oregon » Forage Seed and Cereal Research Unit » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #224405
Title: Choke in orchardgrass: research update and potential control

Author
item Alderman, Stephen
item RAO, SUJAYA - OREGON STATE UNIVERSITY

Submitted to: Seed Production Research at Oregon State University
Publication Type: Experiment Station
Publication Acceptance Date: 2/21/2008
Publication Date: 4/1/2008
Citation: Alderman, S.C., Rao, S. 2008. Choke in orchardgrass: research update and potential control. Seed Production Research at Oregon State University. 127:22-23.

Interpretive Summary: Choke is a serious fungal disease that causes significant yield loss in orchardgrass seed production fields. Recent research findings and potential control options were summarized. This information will be value to growers, consultants, and extension agents, and researchers with an interest in orchardgrass seed production.

Technical Abstract: Choke, caused by the endophytic fungus Epichloe typhina is a serious and persistent problem in orchardgrass seed production fields. Recent research on choke has provided new insight into the biology and epidemiology of E. typhina. Fungicides for prevention of infection have not proven effective. However, recent studies on sexual reproduction in E. typhina suggest that significant reductions in the spores responsible for infection could be achieved by preventing fertilization of the fungus. Fungicides applied at this stage of fungal development may provide a viable approach to choke control.