Scab

Pseudomonas gladioli

What is Gladiolus Bacterial Scab (Burkholderia gladioli)?

Gladiolus Bacterial Scab, caused by Burkholderia gladioli pv. gladioli (formerly Pseudomonas gladioli pv. gladioli). It doesn't kill the plants, and corms usually produce normal flower spikes unless severely affected. The bacteria can be introduced through infected corms or survive from a previous planting. Symptoms include shallow, sunken black lesions on corms with a definite rim and a hard, shiny black layer. Lesions are more common at the base of the corms, while Stromatinia lesions are prevalent in the upper portion and leaf scar region.

How does Gladiolus Bacterial Scab (Burkholderia gladioli) occur?

The bacterium enters gladiolus plants through wounds caused by insects or mechanical damage. It then proliferates within the plant tissue and releases toxins that harm the plant cells. The damaged cells eventually die, leading to the formation of scabs on the corm's surface. These scabs can vary in color, ranging from black, and brown, to gray, and can reach up to 1 cm in diameter. The bacterium can persist in the soil for several years and can be transmitted between plants through water, tools, and human activities.

Symptoms

1 - Effects on Plants

• Bacterial scab is a destructive disease that causes the death of cells. This disease negatively impacts flower production, leading to reduced yields. Additionally, scabs increase the plants' susceptibility to other diseases, further compromising their health and overall productivity.

2 - Effects on Soil and the Environment

• Bacterial scab has significant impacts on the soil and environment. The bacterium responsible can persist in the soil for extended periods, leading to contamination. • The disease spreads through water, tools, and human activities, challenging future gladiolus cultivation. Additionally, bacterial scab contaminates water supplies and hinders crop growth, posing risks to animals and humans.

Solutions

1 - Preventions

• Use scab-free corms for planting. Obtain corms from reputable dealers who test for diseases and sell only healthy corms. • Avoid using corms from heavily scab-infested soil. • Keep corms dry before and after planting as bacterial scab is more likely to occur in wet conditions. • Avoid planting gladiolus in the same area for at least two to three years to break the disease cycle.

2 - Balanced Fertilizer and Bulb mite control

• Use a balanced fertilizer to promote strong and healthy plant growth, reducing susceptibility to diseases. • Manage bulb mite populations to prevent feeding wounds. • Use insecticides or cultural practices to control mites.

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.