Determining the presence and prevalence of cercospora leaf spot disease (Cercospora beticola sacc.) in sugar beet planting areas of yozgat province and the approaches of producers against this disease

In numerous regions where sugar beet cultivation is prevalent, the Cercospora leaf spot disease (Cercospora beticola Sacc.) emerges as a principal disease causing significant economic losses. Epidemics occur when climatic conditions are suitable for the development of the disease. This study was conducted to determine the rate and prevalence of Cercospora leaf spot disease seen in sugar beet cultivation areas in Yozgat province and the approaches of sugar beet producers against this disease. The incidence rate and prevalence of the disease were ascertained through observations and sampling conducted via a random sampling method from June to October 2022. This was carried out in the sugar beet production areas located in the Merkez, Boğazlıyan, Sarıkaya, and Şefaatli districts. In the central district, the survey covered 43 fields across 8 villages, encompassing a total area of 1000 acres. The survey results indicated that the disease was present in 7 out of these 8 villages. In Boğazlıyan district, sugar beet surveys were carried out in 13 villages and 32 fields in a total area of 600 decares. According to the results of this survey, the disease was detected in 9 of 13 villages. Sugar beet surveys were carried out in 25 fields in 7 villages, totaling 500 in Sarıkaya district. The disease was found in 6 of the 7 villages where surveys were carried out. Sugar beet survey was carried out in 6 villages and 20 fields on a total area of 400 decares in Şefaatli district. Diseased areas were detected in 3 of the 6 villages where surveys were carried out. The disease prevalence rates were found to be 41,8% in the Center, 46,8% in Boğazlıyan, 52% in Sarıkaya and 55% in Şefaatli district, respectively. Upon analyzing the survey results, it was noted that farmers identified rainfall as a significant contributing factor to the emergence of the disease, and as a precaution, they preferred to undertake preventive spraying before the onset of the disease. Similarly, it has been determined that producers mostly use chemical control methods (96%) against this disease.