Effect of <scp>UV</scp>‐C Radiation on Resistance of Romaine Lettuce (<i>Lactuca sativa</i> L.) Against <i>Botrytis cinerea</i> and <i>Sclerotinia minor</i>

Abstract

Abstract The aim of this research was to examine the effect of UV‐C on resistance of lettuce to Botrytis cinerea and Sclerotinia minor . Analysis of the lesion surfaces showed that plants exposed to UV‐C were less susceptible to the two pathogens, especially on the fourth day after inoculation. Chlorophyll, carotenoid contents and malondialdehyde and hydrogen peroxide were assayed after 1 day and 4 days. Lettuces treated with UV‐C and inoculated showed an increase in chlorophyll and carotenoid content, especially 24 h after inoculation, and low values of the two indicators of oxidative stress as compared with lettuces which were inoculated but did not receive UV‐C treatment.