The prevalence of olive leaf spot (Spilocaea oleginea) disease in olive orchards in Hatay province and identification of inoculum sources responsible for infections

In this study, the prevalence, seasonal variation and spore production potential on leaves infected with Spilocaea oleaginea causing Olive Leaf Spot Disease in olive orchards in different districts of Hatay province were investigated. The survey results indicated that Olive Leaf Spot Disease were found in all orchards. The highest disease severity was calculated in Defne district in March and in Samandağ district in December survey. On the other hand, the disease incidence was found to be higher in March than that of December. When it was examined seasonal fluctuations of the disease, the highest disease severity (30.52-35.64%) was detectedin June and August. When spore production potential of leaves, infected with Spilocaea oleaginea, was examined, the highest spore production was counted in March. No spore production of the pathogen was detected in July. As a resul, it has been determed that Olive Leaf Spot Disease is prevalent in all olive producing areas in Hatay province and it has been revealed that the most active period of the pathogen isin spring.