Botrytis bulb rot (Neck rot)
Botrytis spp.
Also Known As - Botrytis leafspot (leaf blight),Leaf blight (Botrytis leafspot),Neck rot (Botrytis bulb rot)What is Botrytis bulb rot (Botrytis spp.)?
Botrytis Neck and Bulb Rot is a fungal disease that affects onions, garlic, leek, and shallot plants. It is caused by Botrytis allii, Botrytis aclada, and Botrytis porri fungi. The disease occurs worldwide wherever these crops are grown. Symptoms include softening, water-soaked, and brown tissue at the neck of onions, along with gray, felt-like growth and the development of dark sclerotia. In garlic, symptoms include stunted growth, dead outer leaves, water-soaked tissue turning dry and necrotic, and the presence of sclerotia.
How does Botrytis bulb rot (Botrytis spp.) occur?
Botrytis neck and bulb rot reproduces through the production and dispersal of spores. The fungus survives in infected plant debris and soil as resting structures called sclerotia. When conditions become favorable, such as high humidity and moderate temperatures, the sclerotia germinates and produces airborne spores. These spores can be spread by wind, water, insects, or human activities. When the spores land on susceptible plant tissue, they germinate and infect the plant, initiating the disease cycle. The fungus then continues to grow and reproduce, causing further infection and spread of the disease.
Symptoms
1 - Effects on Plants
• Botrytis spp. has significant impacts on plants, resulting in yield losses in crops like onions, garlic, leeks, and shallots. • It manifests through stunted growth, decayed tissue, and reduced bulb quality. Moreover, it weakens the plants, making them more vulnerable to other pathogens.
2 - Effects on Soil and the Environment
• Botrytis spp. has significant impacts on both soil and the environment. The presence of sclerotia in the soil acts as a source of inoculum for future infections, posing a continuous threat. • Disruption of crop production affects local food supplies and has adverse economic consequences, highlighting the need for effective management strategies.
Solutions
1 - Prevention Measures
• Rotating crops help reduce disease pressure by interrupting the life cycle of Botrytis spp. and preventing its buildup in the soil. • Promptly remove and dispose of any infected plant material, as it serves as a potential source of inoculum for future infections. • Good airflow in growing and storage areas helps reduce humidity levels, creating an unfavorable environment for Botrytis spp. • Excessive nitrogen promotes lush plant growth, making them more susceptible to Botrytis spp. infections. Use fertilizers judiciously to maintain balanced plant nutrition. • Proper drying and curing of bulbs reduce moisture content, inhibiting fungal growth. Ensure well-ventilated and adequately spaced drying areas to promote efficient drying and minimize the risk of Botrytis spp. infection.
2 - Fungicides for Treatment
• Fluxapyroxad/Pyraclostrobin is a fungicide used for treating Botrytis Neck and Bulb Rot, and it is available under the brand name Merivon Xemium. • To combat the disease, the fungicide Iprodione, sold under the brand name Rovral Brand 4 Flowable, can be applied as a foliar spray. • Chlorothalonil is an effective fungicide for suppressing Botrytis Neck and Bulb Rot. It can be found under different brand names such as Bravo Weather Stik and Echo 720. • Remember to read and follow the instructions on the fungicide labels for proper application and dosage carefully.
Susceptible Species
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.
