Very wide host range. All herbaceous parts of the plant are affected and under humid conditions white cottony mycelium develops on all parts of the plant. It is a soil invader. Can cause a soft rot on tubers or corms and will spread by mycelial growth on the soil surface if humid enough. Survives as sclerotia and is very aggressive.
Control depends on rotation, sanitation and fungicides.
Small grains are not susceptible so they are a suitable rotation crop and proper plant spacing is important. Fungicides are marginally effective if applied at the right time although they are getting better. Biocontrol Sporodesmium is being studied to hit the sclerotia. Not a major part of this course just need to know the main pathogens. Correct storage under moderate humidity and low oxygen and low temperature.