Anke Taal, Plant Doctor Eurofins Agro: "In the coming weeks it is important to be extra alert for Pythium. The days are shortening again and there is a lot of strain on the crop. With this weakness parasites can easily strike at this moment, both in substrate cultivation as in the open field." Research gives insight into the presence of this fungi.
Taal: "Pythiium (root decay) can affect almost all crops. The fungi spreads by spores, which are very sensitive to desiccation, and their dispersement is coupled to the availability of water. Dispersement can be very rapid in a humid environment."
Signs of decay
"Pythium decay first becomes visible at the roots. Showing signs of decay and a brown-black color, and eventually the roots will rot away completely. The line between sick and healthy tissue is a fine one. The plant grows more slowly and the leaf can turn yellow because insufficient nutrients are supplied by the roots. The plant slowly languishes (sometimes partially)."
Water samples
Pythium is present everywhere according to the Plant Doctor: "As long as the crop is growing well, it is not a problem. Plants in stress are extra vulnerable for infection. By checking the water or ground regularly for the presence of this fungi, it is possible to take measures in time."
There are a number of ways to research whether there are microbiological risks present. Taal: 'By having a DNA multi-scan performed on the dirty drain water you can check for Pythium in your cultivation system. We also advise to have your purifier checked regularly with the OntsmetterCheck analysis. The OntsmetterCheck is a germ count determination and indicates the presence of living fungi and bacteria before and after purification."
Prevent Pythium
- Abundant soil moisture stimulates the development of diseases such as Pythium. Make sure drainage works properly.
- A high plant taxation with a lot of fruits can increase the chance at Pythium root decay. Prevent over-fertilization.
- Temperatures which are not optimal for plant growth, are in general beneficial to Pythium. Provide an optimal climate.
- Hands, tools, hoses, and contagious plant material are ways in which Pythium can spread. Work as clean as possible.
- Ebb and flow systems are risky for spreading spores. Check irrigation water regularly.
- Remove plants with symptoms as quickly as possible and prevent spreading.
- Reuse of a growth medium increases the risk of Pythium. Always have it researched prior to reuse.
Eurofins: "Have a water sample tested if you doubt the water quality, it can prevent Pythium."
For more information:
Eurofins Agro
horti@eurofins-agro.com