Abstract:
Faba bean (Vicia faba L.) is one of the most important crops grown in the highlands of Wollo, Ethiopia. Its yield is generally very low due to a variety of diseases. Among them, faba bean gall has become a very serious threat causing a yield loss up to 100%. Since the disease is new, information is lacking on distribution and management options. In view of this, survey and experimental research were carried out with the objectives to assess and determine faba bean gall distribution, epidemiological factors and its management through integrated varieties and fungicides. Field survey was conducted in major faba bean growing districts namely, Gidan, Meket, Kutaber and Tehulederie during 2018 main cropping season. A total of 60 fields were assessed. Disease prevalence, incidence and severity were collected. The survey data were analyzed with SPSS. The highest (27.53 %) and the lowest (4%) faba bean gall severity were recorded in Gidan and Tehulederie districts respectively. The field experiment was conducted under natural infestation condition on farmer’s field during 2018 main cropping season in Meket district, North Wollo Administrative Zone. The experiment was laid out in a randomized complete block design (RCBD) with 3 replications in factorial arrangements. Mancozeb 80 WP, Bayleton 25 WP, Ridomil Gold MZ 68 WG and untreated check were combined with varieties namely, Walki (resistance) and Degaga (moderate resistance) and local (susceptible). Faba bean gall ncidence, severity, crop phenological and growth parameters, yield and yield related parametres were collected and analyzed using SAS software. LSD at 1% or 5% were used for treatment mean separation. The statistical analysis showed that variations were recorded on all parameters except days to 50% emergence, pod per plant and seed per pod. In the final date of disease assessment, the highest PSI of 35.8%, was recorded with control treatment whereas the lowest PSI of 22.71 % was recorded on Walki variety treated with Bayleton 25 WP. The longest flowering date (53 days) and maturity date (141 days), the shortest flowering date (49 days) and maturity date (124 days) were recorded with Walki and local varieties respectively. The highest grain yield (2.59 t ha-1) was recorded on Walki variety treated with Bayleton 25 WP where as, the lowest grain yield (1.44 t ha-1) was recorded with control treatment. Hence, Walki variety treated with Bayleton 25 WP increased yield by 79.9% over the control treatment. PSI, DPR and AUDPC were negatively correlated with grain yield and positively correlated with each other. Walki variety integrated with Bayleton 25 WP was more profitable could be recommended as an immediate option.. However, an extensive similar study should be conducted across different locations and seasons to come with a tangible recommendation. Keywords: AUDPC, Faba bean gall, Fungicide, Host resistance, Management