Reaction of some Persian lime accessions on different rootstocks to witches’ broom disease of lime

Persian lime (Citrus latifolia Tanaka) is the most tolerant citrus species against witches’ broom disease of lime (WBDL), so far, the effects of different rootstocks on this feature have not been evaluated. To perform this evaluation an investigation was performed in randomized complete block design as factorial arrangement with two factors consisting in rootstock (Volkamer lemon, Bakraei, Sour orange and Mexican lime) and scion (Persian lime, IAC, Deperse lime and Tahitian lime) with three replications during 2013–2016. The reaction of T-budding grafted and non-grafted seedlings to WBDL was assessed via graft inoculation with Mexican lime scion infected with WBDL phytoplasma. PCR assay was used to detect WBDL phytoplasma in the inoculated plants and each PCR test was repeated three times. Detection of WBDL phytoplasma was late (116 days postinoculation) in scions on Volkamer lemon rootstock and early (40 days post-inoculation) in the scions on Mexican lime rootstock. WBDL symptoms were not observed in the grafted plants during the course of the study but it was beholden in all seedlings except Volkamer lemon. Generally, Volkamer lemon rootstock is recommended as the best rootstock for Persian lime accessions in the WBDL-affected areas.