Smoulder
Botrytis narcissicola
What is Smoulder (Botrytis narcissicola)?
Smoulder is a fungal disease caused by the fungus Botrytis narcissicola (previously Sclerotinia narcissicola) which targets narcissus plants. It can persist in the soil and on infected bulbs for several years. This disease is more commonly observed in regions with cool and wet climates. In the spring, the initial signs of smoulder manifest as dark brown-black tips on the emerging shoots. These shoots often exhibit withered, distorted, and blackened leaf tips. If left untreated, the disease can spread throughout the entire plant, leading to yellowing and death of the leaves.
How does Smoulder (Botrytis narcissicola) occur?
Botrytis narcissicola reproduces through the formation of black resting bodies called sclerotia in the neck and outer papery scales of infected daffodil bulbs. These sclerotia serve as a source of infection. The fungus also produces mycelium in the bulb neck. When infected bulbs grow and leaves emerge through the neck, the fungus infects the leaves, leading to primary symptoms. Sclerotia in leaf debris and soil can also result in primary symptoms when shoots push through infested soil. Cool and wet conditions promote the development and spread of the disease.
Symptoms
1 - Impact on Plants
Botrytis narcissicola can cause yellowing and death of leaves, while infected flowers may experience distortion and discoloration.
2 - Soil Health
• Persistent Fungus: Botrytis narcissicola can survive in the soil for several years, leading to recurring infections. • Impact on Plant Health: The presence of the fungus in the soil can affect the overall health of susceptible plants.
3 - Impact on Environment
• High prevalence of the disease can impact the population and diversity • Reduction in bulb and flower quality can have economic implications for growers and nurseries.
Solutions
1 - Prevention
1. Well-Drained Soil: Plant in soil with good drainage to avoid excess moisture. 2. Avoid Disease-Prone Areas: Steer clear of planting daffodils in areas where smoulder has been a problem previously. 3. Use Resistant Varieties: Choose plant varieties known for resisting Botrytis narcissicola. 4. Remove Infected Bulbs: Promptly remove and destroy any infected bulbs to prevent disease spread.
2 - Chemical Treatment
Common fungicides for controlling smoulder (Botrytis narcissicola) in daffodils and other infected plants include benomyl, carbendazim, chlorothalonil, iprodione, mancozeb, metiram, propiconazole, tebuconazole, and vinclozolin, which can be applied as sprays or drenches, It is important to follow label instructions to ensure daffodil safety.
Susceptible Species
double daffodil
poeticus daffodil
small-cupped daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
trumpet daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
miscellaneous daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
trumpet daffodil
trumpet daffodil
double daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
trumpet daffodil
split-corona daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
double daffodil
jonquilla daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
split-corona daffodil
small-cupped daffodil
jonquilla daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
double daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
double daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
split-corona daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
jonquilla daffodil
double daffodil
trumpet daffodil
tazetta daffodil
trumpet daffodil
tazetta daffodil
miscellaneous daffodil
small-cupped daffodil
daffodil
triandrus daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
triandrus daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
jonquilla daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
species daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
triandrus daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
trumpet daffodil
jonquilla daffodil
split-corona daffodil
triandrus daffodil
trumpet daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
split-corona daffodil
trumpet daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
tazetta daffodil
split-cupped daffodil
double daffodil
poeticus daffodil
tazetta daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
split-corona daffodil
trumpet daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
double daffodil
triandrus daffodil
split-corona daffodil
jonquilla daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
jonquilla daffodil
species daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
trumpet daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
jonquilla daffodil
jonquilla daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
double daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
double daffodil
trumpet daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
jonquilla daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
jonquilla daffodil
jonquilla daffodil
double daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
miscellaneous daffodil
triandrus daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
bulbocodium daffodil
split-corona daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
double daffodil
large-cupped daffodil
cyclamineus daffodil
autumn daffodil
Mountain Arnica
Daffodil
Sea Daffodil
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.
