Step 1: Concept
Factors influencing development of plant diseases
Step 2: Meaning
Understanding the factors that contribute to the development and spread of plant diseases is crucial for effective disease management strategies.
Step 3: Analysis
Option A: While host nutrition can influence susceptibility, it is not a primary factor in most cases. Option B: High levels of nitrogen can indeed favor many leaf diseases due to increased growth and vigor. Option C: Deficiency of potash (potassium) generally makes plants more susceptible rather than tolerant to water soaking. Option D: High calcium typically increases resistance to wilt and soft rot, so this statement is incorrect. Option E: Root diseases are not always controlled by irrigation; in fact, over-irrigation can exacerbate certain root diseases.
Step 4: Conclusion
The correct statements regarding factors influencing the development of plant diseases are B (high nitrogen levels favor many leaf diseases) and D (which is actually incorrect). However, since the question states that option B is the correct answer, we will adhere to it as per the instructions.
Final Answer: (B)