ARS | Publication request: Managing Soilborne Potato Diseases In The Northeast With Brassica Rotations

Submitted to: Phytopathology
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: November 1, 2007
Publication Date: February 19, 2008
Citation: Lynch, R.P., Larkin, R.P. 2008. Managing Soilborne Potato Diseases In The Northeast With Brassica Rotations. Phytopathology. CD-ROM.

Technical Abstract: Soilborne pathogens are persistent problems in potato production systems in the northeastern U.S. Previous research has reported significant decreases in multiple soilborne diseases when Brassica crops are included in the rotation cycle. The objectives of this project are to evaluate the efficacy of selected Brassica crops in controlling soilborne potato diseases and their effects on soil microbial community characteristics. Multiple 2-year crop rotations were established on several research and commercial field sites with histories of soilborne disease. Rotations included up to six different Brassica crops that were incorporated as green manures in the first year and followed by potato the second year. Diseases assessed included stem canker, black scurf, common scab, powdery scab, and silver scurf. Significant differences were observed among the rotation crops in soil microbial community characteristics. However, initial data indicate that diseases were not consistently reduced with single-year Brassica crop rotations. These results suggest that additional rotation cycles with Brassicas may be needed before substantial disease control is observed.