Common split gill
Schizophyllum commune
What is the Common split gill (Schizophyllum commune)?
Schizophyllum commune is a widespread fungus found on every continent except Antarctica. It causes white rot on various hardwood trees, including sickly and dead wood, as well as cut timber. Infected plants may display symptoms such as decayed wood, softening of the affected areas, and white or grayish fungal growth on the surface. The fungus can form sessile brackets or circular fans with split gills underneath. It has also been known to cause rare human mycosis, primarily in immunocompromised individuals, with instances of growth in the oral cavity and sinuses.
How does the Common split gill (Schizophyllum commune) occur?
It reproduces through the production and dispersal of spores. The spores are formed on the surface of the split gills underneath the fruiting bodies. When conditions are favorable, the spores are released into the surrounding environment. The spores can be dispersed by wind, water, or other means and can potentially land on suitable substrates. If the spores germinate and find suitable conditions, they can develop into mycelium, which grows and eventually forms new fruiting bodies, continuing the reproductive cycle of the fungus.
Symptoms
1 - Effects on Plants
Schizophyllum commune causes a white rot in hardwood trees, leading to the decay of the wood. Infected plants may experience structural weakness and deterioration over time.
2 - Effects on Soil
As a saprophytic fungus, Schizophyllum commune plays a role in the decomposition of organic matter, including wood. This contributes to nutrient cycling in the soil and the release of essential elements for other organisms.
3 - Impacts on Environment
• Schizophyllum commune enhances ecosystem functioning by decomposing dead wood and recycling nutrients. • It can supports biodiversity by providing habitat and food sources for various organisms. • Additionally, It influences carbon cycling through the breakdown of organic carbon in dead wood.
Solutions
1 - Preventive Measures
• Maintain overall plant health through proper nutrition, watering, and sunlight to enhance plant resistance against fungal infections. • Regularly inspect plants for signs of infection and promptly prune or remove infected branches or wood to prevent the spread of the fungus. • Clean Garden tools and equipment to avoid spreading the fungus to healthy plants.
2 - Environmental Management
• Avoid overwatering and ensure proper drainage to minimize excess moisture, as Schizophyllum commune thrives in damp environments. • Provide adequate spacing between plants to promote airflow and reduce humidity, creating less favorable conditions for fungal growth. • Explore the use of beneficial fungi or bacteria that can compete with or suppress Schizophyllum commune. Consult with experts for suitable biological control options.
3 - Treatment Options
• In severe cases, apply suitable fungicides as recommended by professionals to control the spread of Schizophyllum commune. • Enhance air circulation around plants to facilitate faster drying of foliage and wood, creating less favorable conditions for fungal growth. • Remove and destroy severely infected plant material, including fallen branches or logs, to prevent further spread of the fungus.
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.
