This fourth volume of this 4-volume set discusses the key diseases, typical symptoms, and management strategies of several economically important plants. Each chapter presents an introduction along with a detailed account of symptoms, causal organisms, disease cycles, epidemiology, and management of a selection of major plantation crops, medicinal crops, and mushrooms.

The book features chapters contributed by eminent professionals in the field, who have incorporated their own experience and knowledge along with an overview of the recent developments in their fields. They provide information on the diagnostic tools and management techniques needed for such plantation crops as areca nut (or betel nut), cocoa (or chocolate), coconut, coffee, and tea; such medicinal crops as isabgol and senna; along with several kinds of mushrooms. The volume also includes photographs that show symptoms of important diseases, which are helpful in disease diagnosis.

The volumes provide an abundance of information for understanding and managing plant diseases, with emphasis on diagnostic techniques. The collection includes:
Volume 1: Fruit Crops
Volume 2: Vegetable Crops
Volume 3: Ornamental Plants and Spice Crops
Volume 4: Important Plantation Crops, Medicinal Crops, and Mushrooms

J. N. Srivastava, PhD, has over 20 years of experience in teaching undergraduate, postgraduate, and PhD classes on plant pathology as Associate Professor cum Senior Scientist at Bihar Agricultural University, India, and as Assistant Professor/Jr. at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agriculture Sciences and Technology, India. In addition to teaching and research, he is also engaged in various agriculture extension activities, such as farm advisory services, and has acted as principal investigator and co-principal investigator for several projects on biological control/integrated disease management. A prolific author, Dr. Srivastava has published many research papers in both Indian and international journals, book chapters, extension articles, practical and technical bulletins, and leaflets.

A. K. Singh, PhD, is Assistant Professor in the Division of Plant Pathology at Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology, Jammu and Kashmir, India. He has been engaged for more than 12 years in teaching (both undergraduate and postgraduate levels) and research and is involved in the transfer of technology through different extension activities. He has published more than 30 research papers in national and international journals, one practical manual, and several book chapters and popular articles and has presented many research papers at international, national, and regional symposiums and seminars.