Root Rot on a Bean Plant
- Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by a variety of different fungi, including Fusarium solani, Pythium ultimum, Rhizoctonia solani, Thielviopsis basicola and Pratylenchus penetrans. All types of fungi grow best in moist, humid environments, such as those that spring weather often provides. As the fungus grows, it produces spores that can be carried by water, wind or animals to nearby plants, spreading the infection. Prevent the spread of the disease by removing and disposing of infected plants promptly and by treating the soil at the site of infection.
- The exact fungus that caused the root rot can determine the symptoms the plant will exhibit. Common indicators that the plant has become infected with root rot are poor seedling establishment, discoloration, premature defoliation and uneven growth. The roots themselves may be discolored, smaller, and decayed as a result of the fungus.
- There are three methods of control that must be used together to get the best results in preventing root rot. Cultural, chemical and biological controls can help identify pathogens present in plants and prevent them from infecting future crops.
Cultural control chiefly involves ensuring that the bean plants you buy from a nursery are not already infected. Root rot spreads quickly in greenhouse and nursery settings. Inspect the plant thoroughly for signs of disease. Unfortunately, there are not any bean varieties that are truly resistant to root rot diseases. - Prevent root rot from infecting bean plants by applying fungicides that are readily available at local retail stores. The type of fungicide you purchase determines the way it should be applied. Follow manufacturer instructions carefully when handling chemical fungicides.
- Fungus from root rot grows quickly when leaves or soil are overly saturated with water for long periods of time. Irrigating bean plants only as needed and planting them in well-drained, fertilized soils will help prevent root rot.
