Pest & Disease Bacterial soft rot

Bacterial soft rot

Erwinia carotovora

Also Known As - Bacterial soft rot and blackleg,Seed piece decay

What is Bacterial soft rot (Erwinia carotovora)?

Bacterial soft rot, caused by Erwinia carotovora, is a plant disease affecting various fruits and vegetables. It is distributed worldwide and can infect a wide range of host plants. Symptoms include soft, watery decay of taproots, often leaving the outer layer intact, accompanied by a foul odor. Aboveground signs may include yellowing, wilting, and collapse of foliage.

How does Bacterial soft rot (Erwinia carotovora) occur?

Soft rot and blackleg-causing bacteria enter tubers through pores, waterlogged tissues, stem ends, and wounds. Infected vines spread bacteria to new tubers through soil water. Bacteria persist in soil, plant debris, and seed tubers. Infection happens through wounds or contaminated seed pieces. Moist conditions on wounded tissue enable infection, while high humidity and warm temperatures promote disease progression.

Symptoms

1 - On plants

Bacterial soft rot can cause significant damage to plants, reducing their ability to photosynthesize and leading to stunted growth and poor flowering. In severe cases, the disease can kill the plant. In addition, the disease can also make plants more susceptible to other diseases and pests.

2 - On soil

Bacterial soft rot does not directly affect soil, but the bacterium can survive in the soil and on plant debris for long periods of time. This can lead to the spread of the disease to other plants.

Solutions

1 - Cultural Methods and Preventions

• Rotate planting locations annually to minimize the buildup of bacterial pathogens in the soil. Additionally, control weeds, especially nightshades and buffalo bur. • Choose well-drained sites and avoid practices that lead to water accumulation, as excess moisture encourages disease development. In addition, keep the storage well-ventilated. • Opt for certified disease-free seed pieces of high quality, as they are less likely to develop blackleg in the field. • Harvest mature tubers with set skin, instead of cutting pieces to minimize decay and potential entry points for bacteria whenever possible. Furthermore, pack tubers in ventilated bags with air holes. • Store seeds at 40°F (4°C) and allow them to warm up at 65-70°F (18-21°C) for 2 to 3 weeks before planting. If using cut seed pieces, plant them immediately into warm and moist soil.

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.