Phytophthora root rot–reduced yield losses in crosses with wild Cicer relatives – Warwick 2018

Abstract

Key findings •Crosses between chickpea and wild Cicer species, such as the breeding lines CICA1328, CICA1718 and CICA1812, offer improved levels of resistance to phytophthora root rot (PRR). •Avoid paddocks prone to waterlogging, with poorly drained areas, or a history of lucerne, medics or chickpea PRR. •Use the most PRR-resistant varieties (rated MR) where there is a disease risk. •A higher number of chickpea varieties now have improved resistance to PRR, but substantial yield losses (40–68%) can still occur, even in a relatively dry season, if one soil saturation rainfall event occurs.