Causes of potato scub and effective ways to combat the disease
Potatoes are one of the main crops, but they are susceptible to various diseases, including scab. SSPDaily examined the causes of this disease, its characteristic signs, and effective methods of combating it.
Causes of scab
Potato scab is caused by an infection that hides in the soil. Sandy areas or soils enriched with wood ash and manure are more prone to the disease. In addition, this infection thrives in dry conditions with high air temperatures. To protect the crop, it is very important to solve the problem comprehensively.
Signs of disease
Potato scab can be detected by carefully examining the tubers. Brown sores with a red or purple tint, small grooves, a rough mesh-like surface, cracks in the skin, and rotten areas are all signs of this infection. In addition, potato varieties with thin skin or a reddish color are more susceptible to scab. Interestingly, the tops of the plant do not show signs of the disease, so it is important to inspect the tubers.
Ways to treat potato scab
To effectively combat scab, it is necessary to take preventive measures during and after planting. To prevent infection of tubers, it can be treated with fungicides. Mustard is also an effective protective agent if sprinkled on the bed when planting potatoes and then watered.
However, chemicals should be used with caution and in low concentrations during the ripening period of potatoes as improper use can harm the plants.
Folk remedies for post-harvest processing
After harvesting, it is very important to take precautions against the spread of scab to future crops. Follow these simple but effective folk remedies:
- Get rid of all potato bushes and root crop residues from the garden. Better burn them to eliminate the source of infection.
- Treat the affected soil with a potato scab remedy to neutralize any residue.
- Observe crop rotation and refrain from planting potatoes and beets in the treated area to avoid re-infection.
