Sclerotinia Root and Stem Rot

Sclerotinia root and stem rot, caused by the fungus Sclerotinia spp., is a destructive fungal disease affecting a wide range of plants, including various crops and ornamental plants. The disease primarily attacks the roots and stems of plants, leading to reduced growth, wilting, and, in severe cases, plant death. Managing Sclerotinia root and stem rot involves a combination of preventive measures and targeted control strategies. Here’s how to manage and control Sclerotinia root and stem rot effectively:

1. Preventive Measures:

Crop Rotation:

• Rotate crops to break the disease cycle and reduce the pathogen’s ability to survive in the soil between seasons.

Sanitation:

• Remove and destroy infected plant residues, including stems, leaves, and roots, to reduce the inoculum source.

Seed Selection:

• Use disease-free seeds from reputable sources to ensure you start with clean, healthy planting material.

Well-drained Soil:

• Ensure proper soil drainage to reduce excess moisture, which is conducive to Sclerotinia growth.

Adequate Spacing:

• Plant crops with sufficient spacing between plants to promote air circulation and reduce humidity around plants.

Healthy Planting Material:

• Start with healthy plants and avoid planting weak or stressed seedlings, which are more susceptible to disease.

2. Cultural Practices:

Crop Monitoring:

• Regularly inspect crops for early signs of infection, such as wilting, yellowing, or lesions on stems and roots.

Proper Irrigation:

• Avoid over-irrigation and maintain consistent soil moisture levels to prevent conditions favoring Sclerotinia growth.

Avoid Overcrowding:

• Avoid overcrowding plants, as this can create a humid environment and facilitate disease spread.

3. Chemical Control:

Fungicides:

• Apply fungicides to protect plants from infection, especially during critical growth stages. Consult with local agricultural extension services for recommended fungicides and application timing.

4. Biological Control:

• Antagonistic Microorganisms: Use beneficial microorganisms like Trichoderma spp. that can compete with and suppress the growth of Sclerotinia.

5. Integrated Disease Management (IDM):

• Integrated Pest Management (IPM): Adopt an integrated approach that combines preventive measures, cultural practices, biological control, and targeted fungicide use for effective disease management.

6. Post-Harvest Practices:

• Crop Residue Management: Remove and destroy crop residues after harvest to reduce overwintering and survival of the pathogen.

7. Research and Consultation:

• Stay Informed: Keep updated on the latest research and recommendations related to managing Sclerotinia root and stem rot in your specific crops.
• Consult with Experts: Seek advice from agricultural extension services, plant pathologists, or agronomists for region-specific and crop-specific management strategies.

Implementing a combination of preventive, cultural, and chemical control measures, along with promoting healthy plant growth, can help effectively manage Sclerotinia root and stem rot and minimize its impact on crops. Early detection and intervention are crucial for successful disease management.

Talk to your OMEX representative today to learn more about how to prevent Sclerotinia in your crop or control it in your fields using an integrated approach that relies on the use of adequate nutrition along with fungicides.