Warren Roberts ,Benny Bruton ,Jonathan
Edelson ,Jim Shrefler, Penny Perkins-Veazie, Merritt Taylor
Watermelons were transplanted on June 4, 2003.
Rain and cool
temperatures occurred from June 5 through June 9.
Rain and cool temperatures
occurred from June 5 through June 9.
Most of the plants
were dead on June 9. Pythium was identified in 80% of the plants
that were tested. Pythium is a common soil-borne pathogen that
causes problems with watermelon during cool wet weather.
Pythium and other root pathogens
can be cultured and identified through laboratory procedures such as
the one shown in this photo.
•Root
Infections Led to Plant Collapse
•Only 16% of
the Plants
Survived
•
•Many
plots were totally destroyed
•Additional
plants were planted on June 9 (5 days after the first planting).
The plants planted 5 days later now appear healthy and vigorous
