Introduction to Plant Diseases

This thoroughly revised and updated Second Edition introduces the basic concepts and principles of plant disease identification and management for food, fiber, and landscape plants. Accessible to those with a limited background in biological science, this book covers four main aspects of plant pathology--how to recognize that a plant has a disease; how to determine the cause of the disease; how to manage diseases; and how to take advantage of the latest in disease management technologies. The authors offer several management approaches, including integrated pest management, biological control, new applications in biotechnology, and the use of chemical pesticides. They provide the techniques needed to prevent and treat diseases caused by nematodes, fungi, bacteria, viruses, and parasitic plants. Introductory chapters provide a useful review of the history of plant pathology and the development of plant diseases. The Second Edition of Introduction to Plant Diseases meets the needs of growers and pest management professionals, as well as those of extension agents and private consultants in plant disease management. It will be invaluable for introductory undergraduate courses in plant pathology and integrated pest/crop management, and for agricultural institute and technical programs on plant diseases and their management.