First Report of Sclerotinia Blight Caused by Sclerotinia sclerotiorum on Petunia × hybrida in Italy

Petunia × hybrida (Solanaceae) includes several hybrids that are grown as ornamental plants and are very much appreciated for their long-lasting flowering period. During the spring of 2009, extensive wilting was observed on 2-month-old potted plants of Petunia × hybrida cv. Sanguna Lilac Vein grown in a commercial glasshouse near Albenga (northern Italy). First symptoms included stem necrosis and darkening and withering of leaves. Wilt occurred...