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Red root rot of beans | AG0552 |
Elizabeth Minchinton, Knoxfield
December 1999 |  |
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Caused by
Fusarium solani f.sp. phaseoli
Introduction
Fusarium solani frequently attacks bean plants which are subjected to environmental stress and causes red root rot disease. Severe infections can lead to plant death and crop losses. This disease differs from rhizoctonia root rot by causing massive yellowing and wilting of older plant foliage.
Symptoms
Infected plants are stunted and their foliage turns yellow. The canopies of infected crops are often irregular in size and vigour. On slicing tap roots open, a red-brown streaking can be seen in the conductive tissue (or vascular system). In advanced stages the fungus causes death and decay of lateral roots, and plant wilt. Affected plants may survive by producing new fibrous roots above the infected root area.
Biology
Survival
The fungus is a common soil inhabitant which survives on non-host plants and organic matter.
Dispersal
The fungus is dispersed on seed, in seed bags, on implements, and in wind blown soil. It spreads through the soil during wet conditions.
Environmental conditions
The fungus attacks plants by infecting roots when they suffer stresses such as root pruning, hilling up, and water logging. The fungus prefers cool temperatures below 20C.
Host range
French beans.
Control
Use the following cultural practices to manage the disease and to prevent build up of the fungus in the soil:
- Do not hoe too closely or too deeply near plants.
- Side dress with a fertiliser during early stages of growth to encourage the formation of fibrous roots.
- Remove and destroy plant debris after harvest or deep plough the residues.
- Rotate beans with other non-legume crops.
- Avoid planting beans in water logged soil to prevent infection.
- Minimise soil compaction.
- Plant resistant or tolerant cultivars.
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Correct diagnosis is essential for effective pest and disease control. A commercial diagnostic service is available at the Institute for Horticultural Development (IHD). For further information, phone Crop Health Services on
(03) 9210-9222 or fax (03) 9800 3521.
For further information on registered chemicals, phone DPI Chemical Information Service.
The advice provided in this publication is intended as a source of information only. Always read the label before using any of the products mentioned. The State of Victoria and its employees do not guarantee that the publication is without flaw of any kind or is wholly appropriate for your particular purposes and therefore disclaims all liability for any error, loss or other consequence which may arise from you relying on any information in this publication.
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