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Rutabaga > Dark blotch
What Causes Dark Blotch on Rutabaga Leaves?
Rutabaga, also known as Oilseed rape, Canola, Colza, Rapeseed oil seed, Snagger
Dark blotch is a devastating disease in Rutabaga caused by Alternaria brassicicola. It affects the leaves, stems, and sometimes roots, reducing yield, quality and destroying plants in severe cases. Its potency often varies depending on environmental conditions.

Symptom Analysis

On Rutabaga, Dark blotch first appears as small, greyish-brown spots that gradually enlarge, forming concentric rings. The center of the blotches becomes darker with time, and advanced stages lead to leaf drop and plant death.
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What Causes Dark blotch Disease on Rutabaga?

Pathogen
A fungus, Alternaria brassicicola, causes Dark blotch. It favors cold and moist environments and proliferates by producing conidia, spreading via wind, water, infected seeds, and debris.
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How to Treat Dark blotch Disease on Rutabaga?

Non pesticide
Crop Rotation: Incorporate a 2-year crop rotation, preferably with non-host plants, to break the disease lifecycle.

Sanitation: Ensure rigorous field sanitation by removing plant debris and weeds which may harbor the pathogen.
Pesticide
Fungicides: Application of fungicides such as pyraclostrobin or boscalid can be effective, especially when combined with good management practices.

Seeds Treatment: Treat seeds with appropriate fungicides to prevent disease transmission during planting.

How to Prevent Dark blotch on Rutabaga?

Healthy Planting Material
Using disease-free seeds and transplants can considerably lower the risk of disease introduction.
Field Hygiene
Maintaining a clean gardening area helps prevent the establishment and spread of the pathogen.
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When is Dark blotch Most Active Period on Rutabaga?

The disease is most active during cool, wet weather, particularly late-season as the fungus thrives in damp conditions and can overwinter in the soil or plant debris.

Infectivity

Dark blotch can spread swiftly across fields through wind, rain, and contaminated seeds, leading to widespread infection in a short time.

Lethality

While not immediately lethal, unchecked progression can lead to substantial plant stress, wilting, and eventual plant death, significantly affecting yield.

FAQs on Rutabaga

Does Dark blotch affect the edibility of Rutabaga?
Severe disease can lead to the deterioration of Rutabaga, rendering it unfit for consumption. Mild infections may not affect edibility but can reduce quality and flavor.
Can Dark blotch survive the winter?
Yes, the Dark blotch fungus can overwinter in soil or plant debris, re-emerging in favorable conditions.
Does Dark blotch affect the propagation of Rutabaga?
Dark blotch can affect plant vigor and spread through seeds, potentially leading to reduced germination and propagation.
How fast can Dark blotch spread?
Dark blotch can spread rapidly under favorable conditions. Wind, rain, and contaminated seeds can facilitate quick transmission.
Can any fungicides combat Dark blotch effectively?
Yes, fungicides such as pyraclostrobin and boscalid have proven effective against Dark blotch, but they should be used as part of an integrated management strategy.
Why is crop rotation important for controlling Dark blotch?
Crop rotation disrupts the disease lifecycle by eliminating continuous host availability, thereby reducing the fungus's ability to proliferate.
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