Dr. Stephanie Adams, Texas A&M University

This session examines common soil-borne pathogens that impact plant health, such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. Attendees will learn how to identify symptoms, understand disease cycles, and implement effective prevention and control strategies.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Recognize the Warning Signs – Early symptoms like root rot, wilting, and stunted growth often signal hidden soil-borne infections.

  2. Understand the Conditions – Warm, wet, and poorly drained soils create ideal environments for pathogen development and spread.

  3. Integrated Management is Key – Use a combination of sanitation, resistant varieties, proper irrigation, and fungicide applications to keep pathogens in check.