Pest & Disease Common rust

Common rust

Puccinia sorghi

What is Common rust (Puccinia sorghi)?

Common rust, caused by the fungus Puccinia sorghi, is a widespread and economically significant disease of corn crops. It affects corn plants at all growth stages, forming reddish-brown to orange pustules on leaves, husks, and stalks. These pustules contain spores easily dispersed by wind, rain, or human activities. While rarely causing complete crop failure, common rust can significantly impact corn productivity if not managed. Common rust, previously a minor issue, has become more prevalent due to the widespread use of susceptible corn cultivars and staggered planting.

How does Common rust (Puccinia sorghi) occur?

P. sorghi reproduces through a complex process involving multiple stages and spore types. Common rust (Puccinia sorghi) reproduces through spores. It starts with basidiospores released from overwintering structures. The spores spread to other plants, causing infections. In favorable conditions, the cycle repeats quickly. Later, sexual reproduction occurs, producing spores for the next year. Asexual spores play a vital role in disease spread. Managing common rust involves interrupting this cycle to control its impact.

Symptoms

1 - Impact on Maize Crop

P. sorghi, a fungal pathogen, inflicts damage on maize crops. It forms pustules on leaves and stems, impairing photosynthesis and nutrient uptake. This leads to reduced growth, stunted plants, decreased yield, and potential crop loss. Grain quality and nutritional value may also be negatively affected.

2 - Impacts on Soil Health and the Environment

• P. sorghi indirectly impacts soil through the decomposition of infected plants. • Accelerated decomposition of plant residues returns nutrients to the soil. It can influence soil organic matter levels and nutrient cycling dynamics. • Rust epidemics can impact food availability and agricultural sustainability.

Solutions

1 - Cultural Control

• Choose maize varieties that have demonstrated resistance to P. sorghi. • Begin monitoring for rust pustules starting at the whorl stage of maize plants. Apply fungicides when 80% of the observed leaves have one or more pustules. • Prevent the potential spread of rust disease by avoiding planting maize fields near those with varying maturity stages. • Choose fields with adequate air movement and ventilation, as poor air circulation can create favorable conditions for rust development. • Consult local agricultural experts for appropriate fungicides and pest control options for P. sorghi.

FAQ

Do shade growing plants need any Sunlight?

Shade growing plants do need sunlight, although they require less than other plants. They need some direct sunlight each morning to help them photosynthesize and grow properly. Also, indirect sunlight throughout the day helps them stay healthy. Shade growing plants will benefit from the sunshine, but if they get too much or too little, then they can suffer the consequences. It's important to pay attention to the needs of your plants so that you can provide them with the proper light for optimal growth.

How often should you water indoor plants?

Indoor plants should be watered when the soil feels dry to a depth of about two inches, usually about once a week. A helpful technique to determine your plants' watering needs is to feel the soil before and after watering to get a sense of how long it takes to dry out. An important note to remember is that some plants require less water than others, and it's best to research the specific needs of your individual plants. Likewise, if your home is very dry, you might need to water more often as the lack of moisture can stress the plants and lead to problems like brown leaves and wilted stems.

Can my monstera plant get root rot?

Yes, a plant can get root rot. Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by over-watering, poor soil drainage, or high humidity levels in the air. Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting and stunted growth, and damaged or browning root systems. Sometimes it is difficult to detect root rot until the plant is removed from the soil, as the problems are mainly below the soil surface. Treating root rot usually involves removing the affected parts of the plant and replanting the unaffected ones.

Can I put my Monstera outside in summer?

No, you should not put your Monstera outside in summer. Monstera plants need warm, humid air to thrive, and direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. Instead, put your Monstera in a bright, sunny spot with indirect light, making sure the sun never directly hits the leaves. During the summer, keep your Monstera's soil damp and mist it occasionally to keep the leaves hydrated. At nighttime, keep the temperature around 16 - 21°C (60 - 70°F). You can definitely take your Monstera outdoors for short periods of time, just make sure to bring it back in if it starts to get too hot.

What happens if my monstera plant gets too cold?

If your monstera plant gets too cold, it will become vulnerable to pests, disease, or other damage. Cold temperatures can damage the leaves of the plant, causing them to become spotted or limp. The roots of monstera plants may also suffer in cold temperatures, leading to root rot or other diseases. Belonging to the tropical family, monsteras are used to warm environments and do not do well in cold temperatures, so it is important to ensure your plant is kept in conditions that suit their needs.

Is it possible to grow a vegetable garden in a small space?

Yes, it is possible to grow a vegetable garden in a small space. Gardening in a small space can be as simple as growing a few containerized plants in pots and raised beds, or as elaborate as vertically stacking planters, hanging pouches, and hanging baskets on a wall, railing, or fence. Regardless of the size of the space you are working with, some simple techniques such as companion planting, organic fertilizers, and water conservation can help you get the most out of your small vegetable garden.

Is peppermint herb green good for digestion?

Peppermint herb is indeed beneficial for digestion. The flavonoids in the herb support digestion by reducing inflammation in the digestive track, aiding in digestion and relieving indigestion, heartburn, and even the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, peppermint is naturally rich in menthol, which helps to relax the muscles of the stomach, aiding in the digestion of food. Peppermint herb can be consumed in a variety of forms, such as teas, tinctures and capsules, as well as by adding the herb to food or directly to water or tea.

Should peppermint herb green be consumed daily?

No, peppermint herb green should not be consumed daily. This is because it contains high levels of menthol, which can be toxic if taken in large doses. Additionally, consuming large amounts of peppermint herb green could interfere with the absorption of essential minerals and vitamins, potentially causing vitamin deficiencies. For these reasons, it is best to consult with a doctor before incorporating peppermint herb green into your daily diet.