Causal Agent
Rhizoctonia solani
Distribution
Worldwide
Symptoms
Infection generally occurs in cabbage after head formation as the fungus enters leaves and stems that are in contact with infested soil. Symptoms first appear as tan-to-brown, well defined lesions. Rhizoctonia solani then invades the center of the head, with complete rot often occurring within 10 days. Leaves may wilt and senesce after the head is colonized.
Conditions for Disease Development
Disease development is favored by damp to wet soil, wet foliage and temperatures ranging from 20-28°C (68-82°F).
Control
Maintain plant health and provide adequate fertilizer. Avoid excessive soil moisture, and plant on raised beds to help ensure adequate drainage. Rotate to a non-host crop to help manage this disease.
Australia / New Zealand