Assessment of Fungi and Viruses in Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L.) in Da Lat, Lam Dong province

Abstract

Artichoke (Cynara scolymus L,.), a high economic value crop, was brought to Vietnam by the French in the late 19th century. The artichoke was mainly planted in Lam Dong, Lao Cai, Vinh Phuc provinces, etc. At present, the disease situation of Artichoke plants and the lack of disease-free seedlings result in insufficient source of Artichoke for producers. Artichoke plants are mainly vegetative propagation and pathogens easily transferred from mother to daughter plants. Therefore, low propagation rate and fungal infection are two main factors hindering the expansion and development of Artichoke cultivation (in Lam Dong). Therefore, studying and evaluating the situation of fungi and viruses as well as establishing the in vitro propagation procedures in order to produce high number of disease-free seedlings are urgent for the current Artichoke shortage.