Test of resistance of Populus x euramericana cv. Pannónia to the attack of Discosporium populeum (sacc) Sutton in the conditions of Gornje Potisje

The simple crossing of different poplar species enables a relatively easy method of obtaining the new cultivars and clones by artificial selection combined with production characteristics. The first step in the study of resistance of the newly selected individuals to parasites is the artificial infection of the control plants. If the plant shows the adequate degree of resistance, it is introduced to individual sites and its behavior to the pathogen is monitored in the conditions of natural infections. After the tests with artificial infections, the cultivar Populus x euramericana cv. Pannónia showed satisfactory results, so its monitoring was continued in the plantation production. This paper presents the study of this cultivar resistance to the infections by the fungus Discosporium populeum in natural conditions. Based on the study results, the cultivar Pannónia can be recommended for use, especially at the sites with poorer hydrological characteristics.