Introduction

The word pathology comes from two Greek words, "pathos" (suffering) and "logos" (study). Therefore, plant pathology is the study of the suffering or diseases of plants.

This Web tutorial is a synopsis of a 3-1/2 hour slide/discussion presentation that we have developed over the years in support of several county extension Master Gardener training classes.  Our unit at the Everglades Research and Education Center is primarily responsible for extension and research programs aimed at commercial vegetable farmers.  Therefore the great majority of examples and pictures are from commercial vegetable situations.  However, the principles of plant pathology are what is important.  The basic concepts presented are applicable to all plants and all growing conditions, whether they be diseases in 300 acre  tomato fields or individual hibiscus plants in a home landscape.  

This section is strictly on plant diseases.  Insect problems are covered in another unit of the Master Gardener training. 

This tutorial is divided into modules (1 thru 9) for convenience and ease of learning. To get the most value out of this site, the modules should be taken in sequence.

# - Module Title:
1)  Non-parasitic Disorders
2)  Parasitic Diseases and the Plant Pathogens that Cause Them
3)  Symptoms of Plant Diseases
4)  Signs of the Pathogen
5)  Specific Symptoms and Signs of Bacterial Diseases
6)  Symptoms of Virus Diseases
7)  Plant Disease Control
8)  Chemical Methods for Disease Control
9)  Oh No! -- A Quiz

Site developed by Richard Lentini.  Last updated: May 17, 2000