FIRST REPORT OF LEAF BLIGHT DISEASE CAUSED BY RHIZOCTONIA SOLANI KUHN ON ORNAMENTAL PLANTS IN IRAQ

This study was conducted to detect the leaf blight disease caused by Rhizoctonia solani fungus in some nurseries in the city of Amar. Results showed that the disease is prevalent in these nurseries on Carnation (Dianthus carphyllus) and Night jasmine (Cestrum noctrum). Seven isolates were obtained and identified as from Rhizoctonia solani, four isolates from carnation, and three isolates from Night jasmine and these isolates were diagnosed morphologically and microscopically. The sclerotia of these fungi examined were seen clearly on the potato dextrose agar (PDA). The results showed different degrees of pathogenicity of Rhizoctonia solani isolates on carnation and Night jasmine, the highest severity of infection on Night jasmine with isolate M3, which was For isolation M3 18.66% with significant differences from other isolates of carnation, the highest degree of isolation (K1) 12% with significant differences from other isolates.