White rot
Sclerotium cepivorum
What is White rot (Sclerotium cepivorum)?
White rot, caused by the fungus Sclerotium cepivorum (Stromatinia cepivora), affects Allium species like onions, leeks, and garlic. Infected plants show yellowing, leaf dieback, and wilting from the base, while bulbs decay with a semi-watery rot. Roots rot, leading to easy uprooting. Infected plant material may display small fluffy white mycelium and pinhead-sized black sclerotia. The disease thrives in cool, moist soil conditions (60° to 65°F) and poses a significant threat to crop health and yield.
How does White rot (Sclerotium cepivorum) occur?
Sclerotium cepivorum, reproduces through the production and dissemination of sclerotia. These small, dormant structures are capable of surviving in the soil for extended periods, even in the absence of a host plant. Sclerotia germinates when stimulated by Allium root exudates, initiating the formation of fungal mycelium. The mycelium invades plant tissues, leading to the development of symptoms. As the disease progresses, new sclerotia are formed on the mycelial mat, contributing to the spread and persistence of the pathogen in the soil.
Symptoms
1 - Plants Health
White rot significantly reduces crop yields, weakens plants, making them prone to other diseases and pests. Infected bulbs have reduced storability, shorter shelf life, and increased post-harvest losses, contributing to a decline in plant health and productivity.
2 - Impacts on Soil
• The sclerotia of Sclerotium cepivorum can persist in the soil for up to 20 years, resulting in a long-lasting risk of disease. • Build-up of pathogen inoculum, increasing the likelihood of disease outbreaks. It reduced soil fertility and productivity due to crop losses. • Altered soil microbial communities and nutrient cycling affect overall soil health and availability.
Solutions
1 - Prevention Measures
• Use disease-free planting material from reputable sources. • Avoid introducing infected transplants, sets, or garlic cloves. • Implement a long-term rotation schedule, avoiding consecutive Allium crops in the same field. • Remove and destroy infected plant debris to minimize the spread of the fungus. • Apply fungicides preventively before disease development or at the first sign of symptoms. • Ensure thorough coverage of plants, especially the base of bulbs and surrounding soil.
2 - Fungicides Application
• Some commonly used fungicides for disease control in various crops include Captan (Captan 50 WP, Captan 80 WDG), Mancozeb (Dithane M-45, Manzate Pro-Stick), Thiophanate-methyl (Topsin M, T-Methyl SPC 50 WSB), Myclobutanil (Rally 40W, Systhane), Chlorothalonil (Bravo Weather Stik, Daconil), Azoxystrobin (Quadris, Amistar), Propiconazole (Tilt, Banner Maxx), and Cyprodinil + Fludioxonil (Switch, Pristine). • It's important to consult with local agricultural experts or authorities for specific recommendations and availability in your region. Always follow label instructions for proper and safe use of fungicides.
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.
