Disease/Virus Management
Plant diseases can result from a combination of many factors. Under certain conditions, viruses, nematodes, bacteria, fungi, heat, cold, chemicals and air pollution can cause plant disease. By creating conditions that promote plant vigor, losses due to disease can be minimized.
For current information on disease recommendations in specific crops, please visit the New England Vegetable Management Guide. The Guide also contains general disease management information including:
Disease Identification
Correct identification of diseases is key for proper selection of management techniques, including cultural practices to prevent disease and pesticides. Use the column on the left to visit our photo gallery of diseases in vegetable crops.
Fungicides and bactericides are used to prevent, not cure, diseases. Applications begun before disease appears, or at the first sign of disease, are the most effective way to use these pesticides. You must know the cause of the disease to select the proper material. Note that the continuous use of certain bactericides or fungicides can result in pathogens becoming resistant to these chemicals.
Use a Disease Diagnostic Laboratory, along with your regional and state Extension specialist to assist you in determining the cause of disease in your crop. http://www.umass.edu/agland/services/plant_diagnosis.html
|
