The effect of nitrogen application on the development of rusts on wheat varieties

Abstract

The effect of four different levels of nitrogen fertilization on the severity of rusts on three local Egyptian wheat varieties have been investigated. Nitrogen fertilizer was at the rates 0, 40, 60, and 80 kg nitrogen per feddan. Data obtained indicated that resistance of the varieties did not change while percent severity of postules on susceptible, moderately susceptible and moderately resistant varieties was increased as the level of nitrogen fertilization increased. Heavy doses of nitrogen promoted the size and frequency of postules and hence the rust growth and predisposed the plants to higher infection with rusts.