Diversification of diseases affecting herb crops in Israel accompanies the increase in herb crop production

During the last 15 years there has been a significant increase in both field and greenhouse herb crop production in Israel. Many new species and cultivars are being grown. The increase in herb production has been accompanied by an increase in the occurrence of known soilborne and foliar pathogens along with some new diseases and new forms of existing diseases. Apart from the expansion of herb crop production, the changes in cultural and harvesting practices are likely contributors to the increase in disease incidence.