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Agronomy
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Infectious Plant Diseases: Emerging Threats and Advances in Plant Protection
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Infectious Plant Diseases: Emerging Threats and Advances in Plant Protection

A special issue of Agronomy (ISSN 2073-4395). This special issue belongs to the section "Pest and Disease Management".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 15 May 2026 | Viewed by 27837

Special Issue Editors

Dr. Slavica Matic

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
1. Institute for Sustainable Plant Protection, National Research Council of Italy (IPSP-CNR), 10135 Turin, Italy
2. Department of Agricultural, Food and Forest Sciences (SAAF), University of Palermo, Viale delle Scienze, 90128 Palermo, Italy
Interests: plant pathology; molecular biology of plant pathogens; quarantine plant pathogens; innovative precision diagnostics
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals
Dr. Swarnalatha Moparthi

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Plant Sciences & Plant Pathology, Montana State University, Bozeman, MT 59717, USA
Interests: plant pathology; disease diagnosis; pathogen characterization
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

Infectious plant diseases have historically caused severe agricultural losses and food insecurity. Significant events such as the Irish Potato Famine illustrate the devastating impact of plant pathogens on human societies. Advances in molecular biology, genomics, and plant pathology have improved our understanding and management of these diseases. However, new pathogens continue to emerge and existing ones evolve, exacerbated by climate change and global trade, thus presenting ongoing challenges to global food security and ecosystem health.

This Special Issue explores the latest research and innovations in combating plant diseases. We seek to cover a broad range of topics, including the identification of novel pathogens, advancements in diagnostic technologies, genetic and biotechnological approaches to enhancing disease resistance, and the influence of environmental changes on disease dynamics. By compiling cutting-edge research and expert insights, we aim to provide a comprehensive overview of the current challenges and future directions in plant protection.

Dr. Slavica Matic
Dr. Swarnalatha Moparthi
Guest Editors

Manuscript Submission Information

Manuscripts should be submitted online at www.mdpi.com by registering and logging in to this website. Once you are registered, click here to go to the submission form. Manuscripts can be submitted until the deadline. All submissions that pass pre-check are peer-reviewed. Accepted papers will be published continuously in the journal (as soon as accepted) and will be listed together on the special issue website. Research articles, review articles as well as short communications are invited. For planned papers, a title and short abstract (about 250 words) can be sent to the Editorial Office for assessment.

Submitted manuscripts should not have been published previously, nor be under consideration for publication elsewhere (except conference proceedings papers). All manuscripts are thoroughly refereed through a single-blind peer-review process. A guide for authors and other relevant information for submission of manuscripts is available on the Instructions for Authors page. Agronomy is an international peer-reviewed open access semimonthly journal published by MDPI.

Please visit the Instructions for Authors page before submitting a manuscript. The Article Processing Charge (APC) for publication in this open access journal is 2600 CHF (Swiss Francs). Submitted papers should be well formatted and use good English. Authors may use MDPI's English editing service prior to publication or during author revisions.

Keywords

  • plant disease
  • emerging threats
  • plant protection

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Published Papers (7 papers)

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Research

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22 pages, 8230 KB  
Article
Thermal Dynamics of Xylem and Soil–Root Temperatures in Olive and Almond Trees and Their Relationship with Air Temperature
by Miguel Román-Écija, Blanca B. Landa, Luca Testi and Juan A. Navas-Cortés
Agronomy 2026, 16(1), 102; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16010102 - 30 Dec 2025
Viewed by 959
Abstract
Air temperature is commonly used to represent plant thermal conditions, although temperatures within woody tissues and the soil–root zone can differ substantially under field conditions. This study characterized the thermal dynamics of xylem tissue and the soil–root interface in almond and olive orchards [...] Read more.
Air temperature is commonly used to represent plant thermal conditions, although temperatures within woody tissues and the soil–root zone can differ substantially under field conditions. This study characterized the thermal dynamics of xylem tissue and the soil–root interface in almond and olive orchards under Mediterranean field conditions in Southern Spain. Using long-term in-field measurements, temperatures were monitored in branch and trunk xylem tissues and at the soil–root interface, and regression models were developed to provide empirical correction relationships between air and internal temperatures across seasons and sensor position. Branch xylem temperatures closely matched air temperature for both minima and maxima. In contrast, trunk xylem and the soil–root interface showed pronounced thermal buffering. Trunk xylem maximum temperature was significantly (3.4 to 5.4 °C) lower than air temperature during summer. Shaded soil–root interface temperatures were 5.2 to 9.0 °C lower than air temperature in spring and summer but 5.9 to 11.7 °C higher than air temperature in autumn and winter. These patterns indicate a strong capacity of woody tissues and the soil–root system to moderate external thermal conditions. By quantifying air-to-tissue and air-to-soil relationships under field conditions, this study provides microclimatic data that can improve agronomic models and temperature-driven disease risk frameworks for vascular pathogens infecting woody crops. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Plant Diseases: Emerging Threats and Advances in Plant Protection)
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26 pages, 6425 KB  
Article
Analysis of Disinfectant Efficacy Against Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus: Surface and Method Effects in Greenhouse Production
by Erika Janet Zamora-Macorra, Crystal Linda Merino-Domínguez, Carlos Ramos-Villanueva, Irvin Mauricio Mendoza-Espinoza, Elizabeth Cadenas-Castrejón and Katia Aviña-Padilla
Agronomy 2026, 16(1), 15; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy16010015 - 20 Dec 2025
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1871
Abstract
Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) has become a major threat to global tomato production due to its exceptional mechanical transmissibility and virion stability. Effective sanitation is essential for containment, yet the performance of commonly used disinfectants on greenhouse-relevant surfaces remains poorly characterized. [...] Read more.
Tomato brown rugose fruit virus (ToBRFV) has become a major threat to global tomato production due to its exceptional mechanical transmissibility and virion stability. Effective sanitation is essential for containment, yet the performance of commonly used disinfectants on greenhouse-relevant surfaces remains poorly characterized. This study evaluated multiple disinfectant formulations, applied by spraying or dipping, on polyethylene film, pruning shears, and human hands. After controlled inoculation with a standardized inoculum, treated surfaces were swabbed and extracts mechanically inoculated onto Nicotiana rustica L. Lesion number was visually quantified, and lesion area was measured using a computational image-analysis pipeline. Fifth-generation quaternary ammonium compounds (5°QAS) showed the highest virucidal activity on smooth, non-porous surfaces, reducing lesion numbers to fewer than 10 per leaf at 800–1000 ppm and maintaining infection severities below 1%. Glutaraldehyde at 500 ppm also performed strongly, achieving severities as low as 0.20% on plastic. Metallic pruning shears consistently retained infectious particles, with untreated controls exceeding 100 lesions per leaf and treated samples showing incomplete inactivation. Mechanical agents such as powdered milk and soap reduced infection but did not eliminate transmission. No clear dose–response trend was observed. The two most effective treatments, 5°QAS at 800–1000 ppm and glutaraldehyde at 500 ppm, significantly reduced or prevented systemic infection in tomato assays. These findings demonstrate that sanitation efficacy depends on formulation, surface type, and application method, providing operationally relevant guidelines for ToBRFV management. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Plant Diseases: Emerging Threats and Advances in Plant Protection)
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23 pages, 2644 KB  
Article
Severely Symptomatic Cucurbits in Croatia Dominantly Harbor a Complex of Potyviruses Including the Emerging Moroccan Watermelon Mosaic Virus
by Martin Jagunić, Dorotea Grbin, Marko Marohnić, Adrijana Novak, Ana Marija Čajkulić and Dijana Škorić
Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1613; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071613 - 1 Jul 2025
Viewed by 2301
Abstract
Potyviruses (family Potyviridae, genus Potyvirus), including emerging ones, pose a growing threat to cucurbit production. This study presents the first virome analysis of severely symptomatic cucurbits in continental Croatia, combining high-throughput sequencing (HTS) and RT-PCR diagnostics. Zucchini, cucumber, and butternut squash [...] Read more.
Potyviruses (family Potyviridae, genus Potyvirus), including emerging ones, pose a growing threat to cucurbit production. This study presents the first virome analysis of severely symptomatic cucurbits in continental Croatia, combining high-throughput sequencing (HTS) and RT-PCR diagnostics. Zucchini, cucumber, and butternut squash plants with severe virus-like symptoms sampled in 2021–2022 were found to consistently host a complex of potyviruses, including watermelon mosaic virus (WMV), zucchini yellow mosaic virus (ZYMV), and Moroccan watermelon mosaic virus (MWMV)—the latter being newly reported in Croatia and representing likely its northernmost detection in Europe. Phylogenetic analysis classified WMV isolates as emerging strains of subgroup EM3 and ZYMV as subgroup A1, consistent with European lineages. Croatian MWMV isolates formed a distinct subclade within the Mediterranean group, raising questions about its diversification trajectory. The findings highlight the expanding range of MWMV and underscore the value of HTS for early detection of emerging threats. These results have critical implications for cucurbit disease management, indicating the need to re-evaluate resistance claims in commercial cultivars and implement stricter phytosanitary surveillance in Croatia. The potential role of climate change in facilitating virus spread via aphid vectors is discussed, warranting further risk assessment and international monitoring efforts. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Plant Diseases: Emerging Threats and Advances in Plant Protection)
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27 pages, 3072 KB  
Article
Microbial Metabolic Profile of Two Compost Teas and Their Biostimulant and Bioprotectant Effects on Chickpea and Pea Plants
by Eliana Dell’Olmo, Giulia Semenzato, Aida Raio, Massimo Zaccardelli, Giovanna Serratore, Alessia Cuccurullo and Loredana Sigillo
Agronomy 2025, 15(6), 1378; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15061378 - 4 Jun 2025
Cited by 4 | Viewed by 2011
Abstract
Compost teas (CTs) can be considered natural microbial consortia, able to enhance biostimulation and defense in crops. This study focuses on two plant-derived CTs and their potential use as eco-friendly biofertilizers for chickpeas and peas, with the broader aim to protect soil fertility. [...] Read more.
Compost teas (CTs) can be considered natural microbial consortia, able to enhance biostimulation and defense in crops. This study focuses on two plant-derived CTs and their potential use as eco-friendly biofertilizers for chickpeas and peas, with the broader aim to protect soil fertility. Our experiments demonstrated that the two CTs have biostimulatory or inhibitory effects depending on dilution, target plant species, CT microbial load and metabolism, and age of CT preparation. Peas exhibited positive responses to treatments, while chickpeas could be negatively affected depending on CT concentration. The CT microbial load positively affected biostimulation for both plant species. The metabolic profiles of the CT-associated microbial communities were evaluated using the Biolog EcoPlate™ system. Spearman’s correlation analysis allowed us to ascertain a positive interaction between root elongation and the microbial consumption of specific substrates, namely polymers, erythritol, and L-serine. On the contrary, phenolic compound consumption showed a negative correlation. In chickpeas, root and collar necrosis, estimated with the McKinney index, increased after treatment with CTs at the highest concentration, confirming a phytotoxic effect; but diagnostic analyses demonstrated that the necrosis was also partially attributed to pathogenic Fusarium spp. On the other hand, proper dilutions of treatments determined a decrease in necrosis severity, indicating putative CT biocontrol properties. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Plant Diseases: Emerging Threats and Advances in Plant Protection)
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13 pages, 696 KB  
Article
Optimizing Fungicide Seed Treatments for Early Foliar Disease Management in Wheat Under Northern Great Plains Conditions
by Collins Bugingo, Shaukat Ali, Dalitso Yabwalo and Emmanuel Byamukama
Agronomy 2025, 15(2), 291; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15020291 - 24 Jan 2025
Cited by 5 | Viewed by 2786
Abstract
Tan spot (Pyrenophora tritici-repentis) and stripe rust (Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici) are major foliar diseases of wheat, causing significant yield losses globally. This study evaluated the efficacy of fungicide seed treatments in managing these diseases during early growth [...] Read more.
Tan spot (Pyrenophora tritici-repentis) and stripe rust (Puccinia striiformis f. sp. tritici) are major foliar diseases of wheat, causing significant yield losses globally. This study evaluated the efficacy of fungicide seed treatments in managing these diseases during early growth stages under greenhouse, growth chamber, and field conditions in the Northern Great Plains. Winter and spring wheat cultivars were treated with pyraclostrobin or combinations of thiamethoxam, difenoconazole, mefenoxam, fludioxonil, and sedaxane, among others. Greenhouse and growth chamber plants were inoculated with the respective pathogens, while field trials relied on natural inoculum. Fungicide treatments significantly reduced stripe rust severity (up to 36%) (p ≤ 0.05) and moderately reduced tan spot severity during early growth stages (15–20%). Treated plants demonstrated a 30–40% improvement in plant vigor, and a 25–50% increase in winter survival. Additionally, grain yield in treated plots increased by 25–50% (p ≤ 0.05), with test weight and protein content improving by 10% and 15%, respectively. These findings demonstrate the potential of fungicide seed treatments as an integrated pest (or pathogen) management (IPM) strategy to enhance early foliar disease control and wheat productivity. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Plant Diseases: Emerging Threats and Advances in Plant Protection)
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Review

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47 pages, 1059 KB  
Review
Utilizing Environmentally Friendly Techniques for the Sustainable Control of Plant Pathogens: A Review
by Maria Alexandra Cucu, Ravish Choudhary, Vojislav Trkulja, Shivani Garg and Slavica Matić
Agronomy 2025, 15(7), 1551; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15071551 - 26 Jun 2025
Cited by 24 | Viewed by 10960
Abstract
Utilizing environmentally friendly techniques for pathogen control in agriculture is a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to managing crop diseases. These techniques leverage the natural environment and ecosystem dynamics to reduce pathogen pressure, minimize the use of chemical inputs, and promote long-term agricultural productivity. [...] Read more.
Utilizing environmentally friendly techniques for pathogen control in agriculture is a sustainable and eco-friendly approach to managing crop diseases. These techniques leverage the natural environment and ecosystem dynamics to reduce pathogen pressure, minimize the use of chemical inputs, and promote long-term agricultural productivity. Key strategies include crop rotation, intercropping, and maintaining biodiversity, all of which disrupt pathogen life cycles and enhance soil health. Biological control, such as introducing natural antagonists like beneficial fungi or bacteria, suppresses pathogen populations while promoting plant resilience. Additionally, practices such as mulching, soil solarization, and water management optimize environmental conditions to limit the development and spread of pathogens. These techniques also contribute to integrated pest management by providing sustainable, cost-effective solutions that reduce chemical dependency and mitigate climate change and other environmental impacts. This review discusses the importance of utilizing environmentally friendly techniques, highlighting their advantages, practical challenges, and limitations in different agro-ecological settings, and their role in advancing sustainable agriculture. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Plant Diseases: Emerging Threats and Advances in Plant Protection)
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19 pages, 1369 KB  
Review
Mixed Plant Viral Infections: Complementation, Interference and Their Effects, a Review
by Monica R. Sánchez-Tovar, Rafael F. Rivera-Bustamante, Diana L. Saavedra-Trejo, Ramón Gerardo Guevara-González and Irineo Torres-Pacheco
Agronomy 2025, 15(3), 620; https://doi.org/10.3390/agronomy15030620 - 28 Feb 2025
Cited by 16 | Viewed by 5254
Abstract
Viral diseases are a frequent problem in the agricultural sector, causing significant economic losses, so their management is a constant challenge for producers and researchers. One of the factors that often complicates the control of viral diseases in plants is mixed infections, which [...] Read more.
Viral diseases are a frequent problem in the agricultural sector, causing significant economic losses, so their management is a constant challenge for producers and researchers. One of the factors that often complicates the control of viral diseases in plants is mixed infections, which occur when two or more viruses are present in a plant, generating a complex expression of symptoms. During a mixed infection, the following types of interactions basically occur: complementation and interference, the effect of which produces synergism, antagonism, or no effect. However, there are also subcategories of effects. This makes early detection difficult, and this infection can also give a competitive advantage to the pathogens involved. This review presents updated information on mixed viral infections in plants, the interaction categories, the severity of symptoms, and the impact on plants and vectors. The intention is to share information to better understand the etiology of the diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Infectious Plant Diseases: Emerging Threats and Advances in Plant Protection)
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