Botrytis (Grey Mould)
Botrytis leaf symptoms, pod infection & Botrytis on peas caused by petal lodging
Pathogen
Fungus
Hosts
Peas and most other crop and weed species.
Symptoms
Rotting of leaves, stems, flowers or pods and 'chalky' discoloured peas.
Development
Botrytis is a weak parasite which can only enter plant tissue which is damaged or diseased. It is spread by the remains of damp, infected flower petals which is damaged or diseased. It is spread by the remains of damp, infected flower petals which stick to the stems and pods after pod set. Botrytis is a prolific producer of air-borne spores which are ubiquitous in the environment.
Favourable Factors
Wet weather and high humidity towards the end of flowering
Importance
Reduction in pea quality with a subsequent reduction in value or possible rejection by processors.
Control
There are no resistant varieties
The usage of shorter strawed varieties may reduce the spread of disease
Foliar fungicides at mid-flowering to protect pods. A second application 3 weeks later might be required as a follow-up
