Bacterial Soft Rot

HOSTS

• Carrots
• Brassicas
• Cucurbits
• Onions
• Potato

DESCRIPTION

BIOLOGY

The source of bacterial soft rot infections is often the use of an infected seed or contaminated plant matter in the soil. In wet conditions, the bacteria will be spread through water movement to new hosts. The use of contaminated tools and equipment can also spread the pathogen.  Some bacteria soft rots can spread and damage harvested crops when in storage.  

The bacteria will invade the host plant through wounds or natural openings, such as stem ends. The bacteria will then break down the plant’s structural molecules, causing the plant tissue to collapse and rot.

SYMPTOMS

• Soft, water-soaked lesions.
• Mushy, discolored tissue.
• Foul-smelling tissue or liquid secreted from cracks or other openings.
• Broccoli and cauliflower heads become brown and sunken.

GENERAL MANAGEMENT

• Use certified disease-free seeds.
• Avoid watering practices, such as overhead irrigation, that result in wet soil and plants for prolonged periods.
• Ensure soil is well-draining.
• Sanitize tools and equipment used when harvesting and moving from plant to plant. 
• Remove infected plants, plant debris, and cull piles.
• Properly cure and store crops after harvest.