Damping off diseases
Rhizoctonia spp.
Also Known As - Damping off and seed rotsWhat is Damping off diseases (Rhizoctonia spp., Fusarium spp., and Pythium spp.)?
Damping off is a soil-borne fungal disease that affects seeds and new seedlings in gardens. It is caused by pathogens such as Rhizoctonia spp., Fusarium spp., and Pythium spp. The disease is distributed worldwide and can impact a wide range of plants including vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, lettuce, etc.) and flowers (marigolds, petunias, snapdragons, etc.) It primarily targets seeds and new seedlings, causing the rotting of stem and root tissues. Symptoms include water-soaked, mushy seedlings, wilting leaves, and grayish-brown discoloration. Older, established plants are less affected by damping off.
How does Damping off diseases (Rhizoctonia spp., Fusarium spp., and Pythium spp.) occur?
These fungi can survive in the soil or plant debris and are introduced to the seedling tray through contaminated tools, potting media, or dirty hands. The pathogens spread from plant to plant through shared irrigation water or by growing through the potting media. Cool, wet conditions, overwatering, and slow plant growth contribute to increased susceptibility to damping off.
Symptoms
1 - Impacts on Plants
• It leads to seedling failure, stunted growth, and poor plant establishment. In addition, it can also cause root rot or crown rot in mature plants. • This disease reduces crop production, resulting in financial losses for farmers.
2 - Impact on Soil
• Damping off pathogens, including fungi and molds, can persist in the soil and plant debris. Infected soil can continue to pose a risk for future plantings and contribute to disease spread. • The presence of damping off pathogens can affect soil health and nutrient availability.
Solutions
1 - Prevention
• Use good-quality, sterile potting soil or sterilize your soil before planting. • Ensure proper sanitation of pots, trays, and gardening tools to prevent pathogen transfer. • Plant seeds thinly to avoid overcrowding and promote good air circulation. • Provide adequate drainage and avoid overwatering to reduce moisture levels. • Avoid planting seeds in cool, wet conditions and ensure optimal soil temperatures for germination. • Maintain proper light levels and ventilation to discourage fungal growth.
2 - Treatment
• Unfortunately, there is no cure for damping off once plants are infected. • Remove and discard affected seedlings and contaminated soil to prevent further spread. • Consider using biological fungicides, such as Mycostop, as a seed treatment to prevent disease. • Apply a systemic fungicide, like Organocide® Plant Doctor, as a soil drench or foliar spray to combat fungal problems. • Consult with local extension services or agricultural experts for specific treatment recommendations based on the causative pathogen.
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.
