Effect of population density and fertilization on two foliar diseases in four varieties of sesame (Sesamum indicum L.)

Four varieties of sesame were evaluated. The objectives were to evaluate their reactions to foliar diseases (Xanthomonas campestris pv sesami and Cercospora sesami) at two population densities and different fertilization. The trial was sown in the late season, 1992, in Malpaisillo, region II. The evaluations carried out were: Intensity of foliar diseases, response of the four varieties to thinning and fertilization practices, and grain yield was also evaluated. The evaluation of the intensity of foliar diseases was carried out from 22 to 80 DAE. The evaluation of population densities was carried out at 29 and 80 DAE; and the application of fertilizers was evaluated based on grain yield. The most resistant varieties were Maporal and Mexicana, and the least resistant were Cuyumaki and Venezuela 44. Statistical analysis of grain yield showed that the varieties that produced more grain in descending order were: Maporal and Mexicana, which were statistically different from Cuymaki and Venezuela 44. Thinning and fertilization treatments showed higher yield and disease resistance in each of the varieties, and the opposite was true for the control plots. It was found that yield increases are associated with the intensity of foliar diseases and the response of the varieties to thinning and fertilization practices, which significantly influenced the resistance and yield of the varieties.