Root stem and crown rot
Fusarium Pythium Phytophthora and Rhizoctonia
What are Root, stem, and crown rots (Fusarium Pythium, Phytophthora, and Rhizoctonia spp.)?
Root, stem, and crown rots caused by Fusarium, Pythium, Phytophthora, and Rhizoctonia species are fungal diseases that infect the roots and crowns of plants, including flowers. These pathogens can cause symptoms such as wilting, yellowing foliage, stunted growth, and decayed roots or stems. Infected roots and stems may be dark, soft, easily break off, or have brownish tips. In seedlings, failure to emerge and seed rot can occur. These diseases have a wide distribution and can affect various plant species.
How do Root, stem, and crown rots (Fusarium Pythium, Phytophthora, and Rhizoctonia spp.) occur?
Fusarium, Pythium, Phytophthora, and Rhizoctonia reproduce and spread through spores or mycelium present in soil, plant debris, or infected plants. They are introduced through contaminated seeds, tools, or by wind, water, and insects. When favorable conditions arise, such as moisture and susceptible host plants, they infect roots and crowns, causing rot. The fungi reproduce by producing more spores or mycelium, allowing them to spread and continue the cycle of infection.
Symptoms
1 - Effects on Plants
• Infected plants experience wilting and yellowing due to impaired water and nutrient uptake causing Stunted Growth. • Pathogens cause decay and softening of roots and stem, making them prone to breakage and structural damage. Severe infections result in reduced crop yield or complete loss of plants.
2 - Effects on Soil
Diseased plants contribute to nutrient imbalances in the soil. Pathogens break down organic matter, leading to soil degradation. Additionally continuous infections result in declining soil health and fertility.
3 - Environmental Impact
• Infected plants spread pathogens to neighboring plants. Root rots disrupt soil microbial communities and ecological balance. • Severe infections impact biodiversity by affecting vital food sources and habitats.
Solutions
1 - Prevention
• Start with healthy, disease-free plants and seeds from reputable sources. • Plant at the correct depth, ensuring the crown or stem is not buried. • Plant in well-drained soil or consider raised beds to prevent waterlogging. • Avoid planting susceptible species in the same area year after year. • Water plants properly, avoiding overwatering or excessive moisture in the root zone.
2 - • Cultural Practices
• Maintain proper plant nutrition, optimize watering practices, and provide suitable growing conditions to enhance plant health and resistance. • If possible, rotate susceptible plants with non-host species to disrupt disease cycles. • Consider incorporating organic matter or compost into the soil to improve overall soil health and resilience against pathogens. • Remove and destroy infected plant debris to minimize pathogen survival and spread.
3 - Treatment
• In severe cases, targeted fungicides may be used including azoxystrobin, thiophanate-methyl, and metalaxyl. Consult with local agricultural extension services or experts for appropriate fungicide recommendations. • Some Biological control agents such as Trichoderma spp. and Bacillus subtilis can be effective in suppressing these pathogens. Consult with local experts for specific product recommendations and ensure compliance with regulations.
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.
