Pest & Disease Phomopsis leaf blight

Phomopsis leaf blight

Phomopsis obscurans

What is Phomopsis leaf blight (Phomopsis obscurans)?

Phomopsis obscurans is a common fungus found in strawberry plants, which causes the disease of leaf blight. The pathogen infects leaves, stolons, and fruit. Symptoms include circular reddish-purple spots that develop into V-shaped lesions along the veins. The lesions have a dark brown center, a light brown outer zone, and a purple, red, or yellow perimeter. Severe infections lead to yellowing, browning, and death of the plant. Fruit may exhibit soft, light pink lesions with a tough, tan-colored center.

How does Phomopsis leaf blight (Phomopsis obscurans) occur?

Phomopsis obscurans reproduce by releasing tiny spores called conidia from fungal structures called pycnidia. These spores can be carried by wind, water, or other means to infect new plants. Once the spores find a suitable plant, they germinate and cause infection. The fungus can also reproduce sexually under certain conditions, producing spores called ascospores. These spores contribute to the spread and survival of the pathogen. Overall, the fungus spreads by releasing spores that can travel and infect new plants, allowing it to reproduce and continue its life cycle.

Symptoms

1 - Plants Health

Phomopsis leaf blight weakens plants, leading to reduced yields and potential plant death, negatively impacting both plant health and the economy.

2 - Soil Health

• Disease persistence: Pathogens can overwinter in plant debris, contributing to recurring infections. • Nutrient cycling: Severe infections impact nutrient uptake and cycling in the soil.

Solutions

1 - Prevention

• Use certified disease-free plants to avoid introducing the pathogen. • Clear the field of old plant debris to eliminate overwintering fungal inoculum. • Select a well-drained field with good air circulation for planting. • Practice proper irrigation techniques to prevent excess moisture. • Control weeds to maintain airflow and reduce favorable conditions for disease development.

2 - Cultural Practices

• Maintain plant vigor through proper nutrition, irrigation, and overall plant care. • Regularly inspect plants for early signs of infection and promptly remove and destroy infected plant material. • Rotate crops to reduce disease buildup in the soil. • Implement crop spacing to enhance air circulation and minimize humidity.

3 - Biological Control

• Consider the use of biocontrol agents, such as Pseudomonas fluorescens, which have shown efficacy against the pathogen. • Consult local agricultural extension services for approved Microbial products and recommended application timings. • Follow label instructions and safety guidelines when applying fungicides.

4 - Chemical Control

• Some available fungicides for controlling Phomopsis obscurans include Captan, Thiram, Myclobutanil, Azoxystrobin, Boscalid, Pyraclostrobin, and Mancozeb. • Consult local agricultural extension services for approved fungicides and recommended application timings. • Follow label instructions and safety guidelines when applying 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.