Incidence and Management of Peanut (Arachis Hypogaea L.) Rosette Disease in Southern Ghana

Germplasm from introduced and local sources were evaluated for resistance to PRD at Kwadaso (forest ecozone) and Hiawoannwu near Hiawoannwu (forest-transition ecozone) between 1999 and 2006. The efficacy of two local soaps, ‘Alata’ and ‘Amonkye’ on PRD infection were evaluated at Kwadaso, Hiawoannwu and Somanya. Chlorotic and green forms of PRD were prominent. Peanut germplasm demonstrating tolerance to rosette often yielded higher than those susceptible to rosette. Application of Local soaps in the study reduced the incidence of rosette due to impact on aphid (Aphis gossypii Golver) population. Results from these experiments indicate that the combination of improved cultivars and use of local-derived soaps have potential to minimize the negative impact of rosette on peanut production in Ghana.