Grapevine Esca Disease

Esca is one of the most important and destructive diseases of grapevines worldwide, decreasing growth and yield in all stages of growth. Phaeoacremonium minimum is known as the main fungal species associated with disease, worldwide and its pathogenicity on grapevines have been documented by several studies in Iran. In the vineyards, infected plant material, soil and reproductive material are the main sources of inoculums. Pruning wounds are the main route for entrance of pathogen and infection. Seasonal and environmental factors such as stress and damage caused by freezing are effective on the symptom developed. Disease management strategies are mainly preventive with pruning and elimination of infected organs and treatment of pruning wounds with fungicides have been suggested.