Sclerotinia

Sclerotinia minor

Sclerotinia minor:

Sclerotinia minor is a fungal pathogen that causes diseases commonly known as white mold or Sclerotinia drop. It affects various crops, including vegetables, ornamentals, and some field crops. The pathogen is known for producing sclerotia, hard resting bodies that enable it to survive in the soil for extended periods.

Hosts:

  1. Vegetables: Sclerotinia minor can infect a range of vegetables, including lettuce, spinach, and other leafy greens.
  2. Ornamentals: Certain ornamental plants are susceptible to white mold.
  3. Field Crops: In agricultural settings, it can affect crops such as beans, peanuts, and other legumes.

Symptoms:

  1. White Mold: The disease is often characterized by the development of a white, cottony mold on infected plant parts.
  2. Lesions: Lesions may appear on stems, leaves, and sometimes on flowers.
  3. Sclerotia Formation: The pathogen produces small, dark sclerotia that are survival structures.

Identification:

  1. White Cottony Growth: The presence of the characteristic white mold on plant tissues is a key identification feature.
  2. Sclerotia: Detection of small, hard, black sclerotia in or on infected plant tissues or soil.

Management:

Cultural Practices:

  1. Crop Rotation: Rotate crops to reduce the risk of disease buildup in the soil.
  2. Spacing: Ensure proper plant spacing for good air circulation and reduced humidity.
  3. Avoid Overhead Irrigation: Minimize leaf wetness, as the pathogen thrives in moist conditions.

Fungicide Application:

  1. Foliar Fungicides: Application of fungicides, especially during periods of high humidity, can help manage white mold.
  2. Timing: Fungicides are often more effective when applied preventatively or at the early stages of disease development.

Resistant Varieties:

  1. Plant Resistant Varieties: Utilize plant varieties that are bred for resistance or tolerance to Sclerotinia.

Sanitation:

  1. Remove Infected Residues: Collect and destroy infected plant residues to reduce the overwintering source of the pathogen.

Regular Monitoring:

  1. Scouting for Symptoms: Regularly monitor crops for early symptoms of white mold, especially during conditions conducive to disease development.

Post-Harvest Measures:

  1. Proper Storage: Ensure proper storage conditions for harvested crops to minimize the risk of post-harvest infections.