Cucurbit growers who have struggled with Phytophthora fruit rot in the past year should keep in mind that it’s suspected the fungus can survive in the soil for at least a couple of years. If environmental conditions are right, including high soil moisture and temperatures near 80 degrees Fahrenheit, having a preventive plan in place is a wise decision.

Phytophthora fruit rot first shows itself on cucurbits as moist depressions in the fruit, usually where it touches the ground. White fungus will begin to grow and eventually the fruit will collapse in on itself.

It is important that you employ good cultural practices – such as crop rotation, proper drainage, scouting and raised beds. However, a good fungicide program can also be key in managing Phytophthora fruit rot. Orondis® Ultra fungicide is a reliable foundation product for such programs. With 2 active ingredients, oxathiapiprolin and mandipropamid, Orondis Ultra provides built-in resistance management, is rainfast within 30 minutes after drying, and offers preventive and residual disease control.

Sign up for the Know More, Grow More Digest to receive twice-monthly agronomic e-mail updates pertinent to your area.

All photos are either the property of Syngenta or are used with permission.

©2018 Syngenta. Important: Always read and follow label instructions. Some products may not be registered for sale or use in all states or counties. Please check with your local extension service to ensure registration status. Actigard, Orondis Ultra and Revus are registered trademarks of a Syngenta Group Company. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners.