There have been no recent notes of collar rot (Sclerotinia sclerotiorum), black root rot (Berkelomyces basicola), or Tomato Mosaic Virus (TMV).
However, not all fungi are bad. Some fungi are molds, such as Penicillium, Aspergillus, Cladosporium, which are a natural part of decomposition. They are equipped to decay growing media and clippings, but not live plants. While these molds will not affect germination or growth of seedlings, they can be aesthetically unattractive. They are also an indication that the greenhouse environment is at an ideal humidity and temperature for microbial growth, including pathogenic microbes.
How to manage molds and menaces?
Increasing air circulation to reduce humidity in the greenhouse will lower the risk of diseases developing.
Sanitation is the key to success.
Trays can have soil, debris, and most importantly, spores from pathogenic microbes.
Steaming trays at 175°F for 30 minutes before use is sufficient for sanitizing trays. A newly made 10% bleach solution may also be used, though make sure the bleach is rinsed off with water before use.
Steaming does not kill off Berkelomyces basicola, which causes black root rot, nor Tomato Mosaic Virus (TMV). If these diseases are identified, the infested tray should be disposed of.
Dispose of clippings at least 100 yards from the greenhouse, so fungi do not grow on them and spread back into the greenhouse.
Milk and mowers! 10-30% skim milk solution or 10% bleach solution, followed by water rinse may be used to clean mowers between uses.
Greenhouses are not perfectly enclosed, and pathogens may spread in trays even with proper sanitation.
Terramaster 4EC is labeled to prevent or rescue plants from further Pythium root rot development. Preventative applications of 1.0 fl oz/100 gal of float water may be applied at 3-8 weeks, while curative applications of 1.4 fl oz/100 gal of float water may be applied when symptoms are observed.
Quadris Flowable (0.14 fl. oz/5 gal/1000 square ft) and Manzate Prostick (0.5 lb per 100 gal) are labeled to prevent target spot.
Follow all label applications to prevent injury and fungicide resistance.
To set up the crop for success next season, trays should be cleaned and sanitized and stored in an enclosed area to prevent contamination from drifting chemicals and spores. Sanitize again before use and change old trays out.
More information on the Tobacco Greenhouse Guides:
