Fusarium rot
Cause | The fungi Fusarium spp. |
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Symptoms | Potato Melons Sweet corn |
How does it spread? | The fungi are common soil inhabitants that enter the tuber through wounds. Because the rot develops slowly, it is generally visible only after potatoes have been stored for some time. Relatively high storage temperatures favour the development of Fusarium rots. Planting affected seed usually results in a poor stand. Melons are usually infected on the underside however spores may splash on to any part of the fruit during rain or irrigation. Some form of wound is necessary for infection. Hot, wet weather, particularly during harvest, favours rapid breakdown of fruit. Air-borne spores infect silks of sweet corn and the pathogen grows down the silks as they start to die, eventually colonising the kernel. Infection usually occurs following cob injury, including insect feeding. Generally associated with high temperatures and moisture stress. |
Crops affected | Potato, rockmelon and sweet corn. |
Control options |
Chemical registrations and permits |