Exploring resistance in cherry tomato genotypes against ToLCVD and late blight under induced epiphytotic conditions

AbstractCherry tomatoes are deemed valuable in the market for exotic vegetables and able to fetch a high price in the organic vegetable market. They are becoming increasingly popular for both culinary use and as fresh ingredients in salads. The main obstacles in cherry tomato production in Punjab include late blight in the early spring season and ToLCVD during the rainy season. The aim of the present study was to evaluate the germplasm through artificial inoculation against ToLCVD and late blight disease. Three genotypes against ToLCVD namely PCT-10, PCT-42 and PCT-47 showed symptomless reaction (doesn’t confirm total immunity, but just the absence of symptoms). PCT-60 was highly resistant to late blight, while PCT-9, PCT-11, PCT-13, PCT-29, PCT-42, PCT-46, PCT-51 and Punjab Red Cherry demonstrated resistant reaction against late blight. One genotype PCT-42 exhibited no symptoms of leaf curl and displayed resistance against late blight. These genotypes can be employed in subsequent breeding endeavours to cultivate plants with enhanced resistance to biotic stress.