Soft Rot

bacteria

Pectobacterium / Dickeya spp.

Bacterial decay causing mushy rot in storage crops, especially potatoes, carrots, and onions.

Identification

Water-soaked, slimy, foul-smelling tissue. Progresses rapidly in warm, wet conditions. Tissues become mushy.

Damage & Symptoms

Tissue breakdown in field or storage. Foul odor. Rapid spread to adjacent produce. Major post-harvest loss.

Organic Control

Remove infected material immediately. Improve drainage. Harvest in dry conditions. Cure storage crops properly.

Chemical Control

No effective treatment. Prevention only.

Prevention

Avoid wounding during harvest. Cure potatoes and onions before storage. Good air circulation in storage. Cool temperatures. Do not store damaged produce.

Data confidence: medium | Source: curated_ipm