Plant Health & Disease Management Flashcards

What is the first step in diagnosing a plant disease?

Answer: Identify the plant

The first crucial step in diagnosing a plant disease is to accurately identify the plant species. Different plants have varying susceptibilities to specific diseases and pests, and similar symptoms can have different causes across species. Knowing the plant allows for targeted research into common issues for that specific species, significantly narrowing down potential diagnoses and leading to effective treatment.

Which pathogen is responsible for powdery mildew?

Answer: Fungus

Powdery mildew is a common plant disease caused by various species of fungi, particularly those in the order Erysiphales. It manifests as distinctive white, powdery spots or patches on the surface of leaves, stems, and flowers. These fungi thrive in moderate temperatures and high humidity, spreading through spores carried by wind to infect new plants.

Which deficiency causes yellowing between leaf veins (chlorosis)?

Answer: Iron

Iron deficiency, also known as iron chlorosis, typically causes interveinal yellowing (chlorosis) in young leaves, meaning the tissue between the veins turns yellow while the veins themselves remain green. This occurs because iron is an essential micronutrient for chlorophyll production, which gives leaves their green color. Other nutrient deficiencies may cause different patterns of yellowing or affect older leaves first.

Which practice helps prevent the spread of soil-borne diseases?

Answer: Crop rotation

Crop rotation is an effective agricultural practice for preventing the spread of soil-borne diseases. By alternating the types of crops grown in a specific area over successive seasons, it disrupts the life cycles of pathogens and pests that are specific to certain plants. This reduces the buildup of disease-causing organisms in the soil, promoting healthier crops and reducing the need for chemical treatments.

What is the main cause of root rot in plants?

Answer: Overwatering

Overwatering is the primary cause of root rot because it saturates the soil, displacing oxygen essential for root respiration. This anaerobic environment creates ideal conditions for harmful fungi and bacteria to thrive. These pathogens then attack and decay the roots, leading to the plant's inability to absorb water and nutrients.

Which tool is essential for monitoring plant pest populations?

Answer: Sticky traps

Sticky traps are an essential tool for monitoring plant pest populations. They physically capture flying insects, allowing growers to identify the types of pests present and estimate their numbers. This crucial information helps in making timely and informed decisions about pest management strategies before infestations become severe.

Which pest is known for transmitting plant viruses?

Answer: Aphids

Aphids are well-known plant pests that are highly effective vectors for transmitting a wide range of plant viruses. As they feed by piercing plant tissues and sucking sap, they can acquire virus particles from infected plants. They then transfer these particles to healthy plants during subsequent feeding, rapidly spreading diseases.

What is integrated pest management (IPM)?

Answer: Monitoring and diversified strategies

Integrated Pest Management (IPM) is a comprehensive approach to pest control that emphasizes monitoring pest populations and employing a combination of diversified strategies. It integrates biological, cultural, physical, and chemical methods to manage pests effectively while minimizing risks to human health and the environment. The goal is long-term prevention and suppression, not just eradication.

Which symptom indicates bacterial infection in plants?

Answer: Water-soaked spots

Water-soaked spots are a characteristic symptom indicating a bacterial infection in plants. These spots appear as dark, translucent areas on leaves, stems, or fruits, often with a greasy or oily appearance. They signify that bacterial cells are multiplying within the plant tissues, causing cellular breakdown and leading to conditions like soft rot or blight.