The pathogen Plasmopara halstedii is capable of forming more than 30 races, of which 330, 334, 710, and 730 are the most common in Russia. The pathogen penetrates the plant at early growth stages, causing stunting, chlorotic spots along the leaf veins, and the appearance of white felt-like mycelium on the underside of the leaves. The disease can lead to underdeveloped flower heads and empty achenes.
Up to six forms of infection manifestation are distinguished, ranging from early seedling death to latent infection, the symptoms of which only become visible by the flowering stage. In breeding for resistance to the pathogen, Pl genes are used (e.g., Pl6, Pl8, Plarg, Pl5+). Since the pathogen mutates actively, the most effective method of control is the development of genotypes with a combination of these genes to provide protection against a broad spectrum of races.
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Downy mildew.