Note reddish-brown sunken lesion on main stem and root near soil line. Plow cotton stalks under immediately after harvest to hasten stalk and root decomposition. This practice reduces seedling disease pathogens, nematodes, and soil insect populations by depriving them of a place to overwinter. Rotate Crops . If possible, do not plant cotton in the same field for 3 years.
Rotation prevents the buildup of many disease-causing organisms in the soil.
Lime Acid Soils . Apply lime as recommended by the Soil Testing Laboratory. Seedling growth is restricted in acid soil which favors the development of seedling disease. Plant High-Quality Seed . These are more susceptible to attack by fungi that can cause seedling disease.