By Scout Nelson
Root rot has become a significant issue for pea and lentil farmers in North Dakota and Montana, with notable crop losses in recent years. North Dakota State University (NDSU) is at the forefront of combating this agricultural challenge.
Audrey Kalil, formerly of NDSU and now with Horizon Resources, has led research efforts in understanding root rot's complexities. The disease is caused by Fusarium and Aphanomyces pathogens, which are particularly stubborn, surviving in soil for years and capable of causing season-long infections.
Kalil's extensive research, in collaboration with Michael Wunsch, another NDSU plant pathologist, has focused on multiple management tactics to curb this persistent problem. They have explored the benefits of early planting, fungicide seed treatments, and crop rotations in mitigating root rot risks.
Their findings suggest that early planting can significantly reduce the risk of root rot, as the pathogens thrive in warm soil conditions. Furthermore, applying fungicide seed treatments when planting in cooler soil temperatures has been shown to decrease the severity of root rot, leading to an increase in yield by 5-7 bushels per acre for peas.
Crop rotation has also proven effective, with studies recommending a minimum five-year break between planting susceptible crops like peas and lentils to see a significant reduction in root rot. This extended rotation can result in substantial yield improvements.
Despite these advancements, the challenge of managing root rot remains complex due to environmental factors and the timing of rainfall relative to planting. NDSU continues to refine their strategies, providing farmers with crucial information on root rot risks and management.
For those seeking further assurance against root rot, the National Agriculture Genotyping Center in Fargo, N.D., offers testing services for soil and plants, helping farmers make informed decisions about planting and disease management.
Audrey Kalil recommends rigorous pathogen testing of seeds prior to planting and advises on the strategic use of fungicide treatments for controlling seed-borne diseases. Through continued research and adaptive management strategies, NDSU aims to support farmers in maintaining healthy, productive pulse crops.
Photo Credit -north-dakota-state-university
Categories: North Dakota, Crops