Comparison of artificial and natural basal stem rot infection tests showed significant correlations between the two traits, indicating that the toothpick method is suitable for developing genotype resistance. Since the results of the tests are reliable, the expression of inbred resistance in hybrids could also be followed.In the case of the material tested, no correlation could be found between inbred and hybrid reaction. Further research will be needed to find causes and develop new inbreds which transfer their resistance to the hybrids.