Powdery scab
Spongospora subterranea
What is Powdery scab (Spongospora subterranea)?
Powdery scab (Spongospora subterranea) is a globally widespread disease that affects potatoes and other plants belonging to the Solanaceae family. The disease manifests through the development of small purplish-brown pustules on tubers. These pustules gradually enlarge, taking on a wart-like appearance, and eventually rupture the tuber periderm. Powdery scab thrives in cool and wet environmental conditions.
How does Powdery scab (Spongospora subterranea) occur?
Powdery scab is caused by Spongospora subterranea, a soil-borne pathogen. It reproduces through a complex life cycle. The disease spreads when resting spores present in infected tubers or infested soil are released. Under favorable environmental conditions, the resting spores germinate and produce swimming zoospores. These zoospores infect the roots of host plants, leading to disease development. The pathogen can persist in the soil for several years, even without a host plant, ensuring its survival and potential for future infections.
Symptoms
1 - Plants Health
Powdery scab has a significant impact on plants, particularly potatoes. It decreases yield by damaging tubers, as scab lesions on tubers reduce marketability and quality. Severe infections can further result in stunted growth and weaken the affected plants.
2 - Impact on Soil and Environment
Spongospora subterranea survives in soil for years as a long-term disease reservoir, contributes to soilborne pathogen buildup, impacting soil health and productivity.
Solutions
1 - Prevention
• Planting certified, disease-free seeds reduces the risk of introducing the pathogen into the field. • Avoid planting in the same area for at least three or more years to break the disease cycle. • Do not plant in fields with a history of powdery scab to minimize disease pressure. • Practice good field hygiene by removing and destroying infected plant debris to reduce inoculum levels.
2 - Cultural Practices
• Plant in well-drained soils to reduce moisture and create an unfavorable environment for the pathogen. • Excess moisture can promote disease development, so proper irrigation management is essential. • Adding zinc sulfate (ZnSO4) to the soil may help reduce the incidence of powdery scab.
3 - Fumigation
• In fields with a history of powdery scab, pre-plant fumigation with fumigants like Metam sodium or Metam potassium can reduce disease incidence. • However, it is important to note that specific brand names or trade names of these products may vary depending on the region and country. Follow manufacturer recommendations and local regulations when using these products.
4 - Application of Fungicides
• Several fungicides, including Metalaxyl-M (Ridomil Gold), Flutolanil (Moncut), and Propamocarb (Previcur), have shown efficacy against powdery scab. • However, their availability and registration may vary by region, so it is important to consult with local agricultural authorities for approved fungicides and proper application guidelines.
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.
