ABSTRACT
Sesame is believed to originated in India, and maximum variability in genetic resources is present. In severe infections, the losses may rise as high as 99%. Symptoms are characterized by the transformation of floral parts into green leafy structures followed by abundant vein clearing in flower parts. Sesame is one of the oldest oil seed crops and is under cultivation since ancient times. The typical symptoms of root rot appear on the stems and roots of the infected sesame plants. Neem cake was the most effective in reducing root rot incidence. Host plant resistance although recognized as a reliable and permanent disease management strategy, very little is known about gene sources and their level of tolerance. Efforts should be made to identify sources of resistance to powdery mildew under field conditions. The deployment of innovative breeding/selection approaches to find a meaningful solution to them.
