Growers sock it to strawberry root rot. USDA’s Agricultural Research Service researchers found that field-grown strawberries grown with compost-filled mesh socks are less susceptible to black root rot and produce more marketable fruit than those planted in unfumigated, unamended soils. Planting strawberries in the flexible tubes significantly reduced incidence of black root rot and increased yields 16- to 32-fold.
The socks provide an alternative to soil fumigation with methyl bromide or other chemicals. The socks can be made of cotton, burlap or other textile fibers or of plastic, including the biodegradable kind. The compost can consist of a combination of leaves, yard trimmings, grass and poultry manure.
For more: Patricia Millner, USDA-ARS, (301) 504-8387; pat.millner@ars.usda.gov; www.ars.usda.gov/is/AR/archive/sep07/root0907.htm.
Virus seen more often on cannas. Virus problems on cannas have increased recently because growers are ignoring disease infections and shipping virus-infected rhizomes, said Bess Dicklow of the
Cannas are susceptible to Canna Yellow Mottle Virus, Bean Yellow Mosaic Virus and Tomato Aspermy Virus. Infection symptoms range from mild to severe. A mild case may include streaks or spots. Severe infection can result in stunted growth and twisted and distorted foliage and flowers. Over time, affected cannas lose vigor, become unsightly and flower before plants are mature.
These viruses, for which there is no treatment, are spread by aphids and other sap-sucking insects. Destroy (burn) affected plants and start again with healthy rhizomes. Keep any new introductions separate until their health can be established.
For more: Bess Dicklow,
Iodomethane can be used as a preplant soil fumigant to control plant pathogens, nematodes, insects and weeds.
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For more: Doug Parsons, Office of Prevention, Pesticides and Toxic Substances, (202) 564-0341; www.epa.gov/newsroom/newsreleases.htm.