Potato Pathology Programme

The primary research focus of the Potato Pathology Programme is the epidemiology, diagnosis and control of soil- and seed-borne diseases of potatoes. Diseases currently being investigated in this research programme include powdery scab (Spongospora subterranea f. sp. subterranea), black scurf and stem canker (Rhizoctonia solani), and blackleg and soft rot (Pectobacterium and Dickeya spp.). Soil and seed-borne pathogens are among the most limiting factors in the production of potatoes and thus the main focus of the Potato Pathology Programme @ UP is understanding these pathogens and epidemiology of the diseases in order to improve management in the field. In order to do this, various techniques are combined to better understand disease spread and development in the field, interaction of host and pathogen, and ultimately use this information to provide growers with a risk assessment for the disease under consideration. 

New Publications

Theron E, van Niekerk JM, van der Waals JE. (2025) A review of the use of phosphonates in the management of Phytophthora nicotianae in citrus in South Africa. Phytoparasitica 53(11) 10.1007/s12600-024-01234-7 PDF
Liakos C, Cowan D, Kvitko B, Dutta B, du Toit L, van der Waals JE, Derie ML, Lebre P, Ibanez V, Coutinho TA. (2024) The Bacterial and Viral Communities Associated with OnionBacterial Bulb Rot. Phytobiomes Journal 10.1094/PBIOMES-11-23-0121-R PDF
Gush S, Lebre P, Coutinho TA, Cowan DA, van der Waals JE. (2024) Disentangling shifts in the soil microbiome of potatoes infected with Rhizoctonia solani Anastomosis Group 3-PT in search of potential biocontrol agents. Phytobiomes Journal 10.1094/PBIOMES-06-23-0046-R
Strydom RF, Wilson CR, Tegg RS, Balendres MA, van der Waals JE. (2024) Advancements in Spongospora subterranea: Current knnowledge, management strategies, and research gaps. Potato Research 10.1007/s11540-024-09701-8
Strydom RF, Wilson CR, Tegg RS, Balendres MA, van der Waals JE. (2024) Advancements in Spongospora subterranea: Current Knowledge, Management Strategies, and Research Gaps. Potato Research 67:1497-1537. 10.1007/s11540-024-09701-8 PDF
Gush SL, Lebre P, Coutinho TA, Cowan D, van der Waals JE. (2024) Disentangling Shifts in the Soil Microbiome of Potatoes Infected with Rhizoctonia solani Anastomosis Group 3-PT in Search of Potential Biocontrol Agents. Phytobiomes Journal 8:128-142. 10.1094/PBIOMES-06-23-0046-R
Coutinho TA, van der Waals JE. (2024) Historical perspective on 120 years of agriculture: Highlights from research published in the SAJS. South African Journal of Science 120:Article #18965. 10.17159/sajs.2024/18965
Theron E, Bophela K, Bisschoff J, Shin G, Coutinho TA, van der Waals JE. (2023) Survey of Soft Rot Pectobacteriaceae Infecting Potatoes in South Africa. Potato Research 66:723-749. 10.1007/s11540-022-09598-1 PDF
Theron E, Bophela KN, Bisschoff J, Shin G, Coutinho TA, Van der Waals JE. (2022) Survey of Soft Rot Pectobacteriaceae Infecting Potatoes in South Africa. Potato Research 10.1007/s11540-022-09598-1
Mushonga K, Steyn JM, Swart WJ, van der Waals JE. (2020) Plant-soil feedback responses of four dryland crop species under greenhouse conditions. Plant-Environment Interactions 10.1002/pei3.10035 PDF