HPIPM:Potato Treating Potatoes Entering Storage

Author: Gary D. Franc

Fusarium dry rot is a common storage disease and can be very destructive. This disease is caused by several species of the fungus Fusarium. This fungus survives in soil, crop refuse, and on contaminated equipment, walls, and floors of potato storages. Since they are soil borne, tubers have the potential to carry the fungus on their surface. A wound or a bruise, is necessary for the pathogen to become established and most tuber infections occur through wounds inflicted during harvest or storage. Any conditions that reduce the rate of wound healing increase the potential for losses from Fusarium. Control of Fusarium tuber rot can be aided by harvesting only mature tubers with well-set skins and handling the tubers in such a manner as to minimize bruising. Harvest when tuber temperatures are above 45° F to reduce bruising. Pad equipment surfaces to reduce tuber injury during handling and always run equipment at capacity. Sanitation of equipment and storage areas will reduce potential losses by killing and removing spores. Fungicides applied to tuber surfaces may reduce decay, if the fungus has not developed resistance. Application equipment should provide complete coverage of each tuber with the protectant spray. To insure maximum benefits from the treatment, situate nozzles on the bin piler. Separate soil, diseased tubers and other debris prior to treatment. Avoid getting the tuber too wet, as this will predispose tubers to additional storage problems.

Due to constantly changing labels, laws and regulations, the sponsors of this web site assume no liability for the suggested use of any chemicals noted in the management section. Contact your local pest management personnel for current information on labeled pesticides that can be used for the intended plant disease, insect pest or weed.