Damping off and seed rots
Thielaviopsis spp.
What is Damping off, seed and root rot (Thielaviopsis basicola)?
Damping off and seed rot caused by Thielaviopsis spp. are plant diseases affecting seedlings and young plants. Thielaviopsis is a soil-borne fungal genus that causes root rot in crops like cotton, tobacco, and vegetables. Damping off refers to seedlings collapsing and dying near the soil surface during germination or after emergence. Symptoms include blackened roots, lower hypocotyls, and dark green cotyledons and leaves. The disease is widespread in warm climates.
How does Damping off, seed and rot (Thielaviopsis basicola) occur?
It reproduces through different means. These fungi can produce spores, mycelium, or survival structures like sclerotia that can persist in the soil. The pathogens can be introduced into the soil through infected seeds, plant debris, or contaminated soil. They require favorable conditions such as high humidity, excessive moisture, and cool temperatures to infect plant roots and cause disease. Infection can occur during germination, seedling emergence, or later stages of plant growth.
Symptoms
1 - Effects on Plants
• Root rots can hinder root development, leading to stunted growth and reduced plant vigor. Infected plants may experience wilting and drooping of leaves due to root damage and impaired water uptake. • Severe infections can result in decreased crop yield or even plant death, leading to economic losses. • It can also impact the diversity and abundance of plant species in affected areas.
2 - Effects on Soil
• It contributes to the degradation of soil health and fertility, as infected roots decompose, and nutrient cycling is disrupted. • These pathogens can persist in the soil, leading to future infections and it can disrupt the natural balance of beneficial soil microorganisms, affecting soil ecology.
Solutions
1 - Prevention
• Consider using fungicidal seed treatments to protect seeds from fungal infections. • Remove and destroy infected plant debris to minimize the source of infection. • Avoid planting susceptible crops in the same location to reduce the buildup of fungal pathogens in the soil. • Ensure planting beds and containers have adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging. • Maintain good soil health through organic matter amendments, proper irrigation, and balanced nutrient management.
2 - Cultural Practices
• Wait to plant until soil temperatures are optimal for the specific crop, as cooler soil temperatures can promote disease development. • Use cultivars bred to be resistant or tolerant to specific root rot pathogens. • Avoid over-irrigation and ensure proper watering practices to prevent excess moisture that favors pathogen growth. • Manage weeds, as they can serve as hosts for pathogens. • Monitor plants for early signs of root rot to allow for prompt intervention.
3 - Chemical Control
• Some commonly used fungicides for controlling pathogens include Mefenoxam (Ridomil Gold SL), Fluopicolide (Presidio), Thiophanate-methyl (Topsin-M WSB), Azoxystrobin (Quadris) and Metalaxyl (Acquire), for various root rot pathogens. • Always follow label instructions for proper application rates and consult local experts for specific recommendations.
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.
