Most varieties are equally susceptible to root rots in this region, but some varieties are more tolerant to Fusarium infection than other varieties in the West. Seed and soil treatments are available to protect seed and seedlings from infection. Closely follow label directions. Pythium species can be managed with Apron or Ridomil. The effectiveness of these pesticides can be quickly lost when environmental or cultural conditions become too adverse for proper plant development.
Research is underway with biological control products as well.
Fusarium and Pythium populations are reduced by fall plowing, rather than fall or spring disking of previously infested debris. Perform routine cultivations carefully to minimize root pruning and hence plant stress and increased infection. Pushing soil up around the base of Fusarium-infected plants before flowering can enhance lateral root development to reduce the damage caused earlier by root pruning and infection. Manage irrigation runoff to restrict spread of root rot and other pathogens within and between fields. Where pod rots are problems, extend irrigation intervals near the end of the season to allow the soil surface to dry, thus inhibiting active fungus and white mold development.