Parsley root and crown rot
| Phytophthora | |
|---|---|
| Parsley root and crown rot | |
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| Parsley leaves showing symptoms of parsley root and crown rot | |
| Scientific Classification | |
| Domain: | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom: | Chromalveolata |
| Phylum: | Heterokontophyta |
| Class: | Oomycetes |
| Order: | Peronosporales |
| Family: | Pythiaceae |
| Genus: | Phytophthora |
| Species: | Phytophthora primulae |
| Synonyms | |
| Parsley root and crown rot Phytophthora root and crown rot |
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Parsley root and crown rot is cause by the soil-borne fungus Phytophthora primulae, which chiefly infects parsley plants. It is usually associated with poor drainage, especially in overwintered crops.[1]
Symptoms[edit | edit source]
The first indication in a field may be patches of stunted plants with yellowing foliage. The roots of infected plants will show a brown discolouration when cut open. The discolouration will become darker as the infection progresses until the outer layer of the root begins to fall away. A severe infection will result in complete foliage collapse and plant death.[2]
Control[edit | edit source]
Diseased plants and associated growing media should be removed and discarded into a covered skip. Regularly clean and disinfect benches, matting, tools and propagation areas if root and crown rot is a known problem. Disinfectants with activity against Phytophthora species include Jet 5 and sodium hypochlorite.[3]
Chemical control[edit | edit source]
The disease can be managed with a fungicide based on metalaxyl-M.[2]
Cultural control[edit | edit source]
Since the spread Phytophthora spores is facilitated in soils with poor drainage, crops should be grown on small ridges to avoid waterlogging in areas where crown and root rot is known to be a problem. Increasing the period of crop rotation can reduce levels of inoculum in the soil, but the fungus has been found to survive after 5 years.[2]
Examples[edit | edit source]
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References[edit | edit source]
- ↑ (2000). Guidelines on Good Plant Protection Practice - Umbelliferous Crops - "Phytophthora primulae (root and crown rot)". European and Mediterranean Plant Protection Organization, Paris, France. p.18-19.
- ↑ a b c (2006). Diseases of Herbs "Parsley root and Crown rot". Horticultural Development Council. p.7.
- ↑ C1 - Damping-off Diseases and Root Rots. Horticultural Development Company. Retrieved: 2011-05-01.
