Page 80 - ORNAMENTALES DEL TRÓPICO
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80 Ornamentales del trópicO
There are many ways to improve the environment, making it more difficult for a disease
to take hold. Producing seed in low rainfall areas improves the chances that the seed is not in-
fected. Most bacteria love warm, humid environments, so seed produced in dry environments
have a better chance of being disease-free. Knowing the proper time to plant and the proper
depth to place the seeds or seedlings is also important. Poorly drained soil should be avoided;
if possible, even in home gardens one should plant on raised beds to ensure good drainage.
Fertilizer should only be applied after soil has been tested to find out what its deficiencies are.
Knowing the history of the field and what disease problems have been present can lead to bet-
ter decisions about how plants will fare. Spacing of plants is important. Wider spacing provides
for good air movement and promotes more rapid drying after rains. Injuries provide access for
pathogens, so one should avoid injuries to plants and plant parts during production, harvesting,
storage, and distribution. Finally, plants will do better in soil that is not compacted, but has been
well tilled. Mulching can also be helpful in keeping weeds down and keeping foliage and fruit
from touching infested ground.
In the end, one may still consider judicious applications of chemicals. Chemicals should
only be used as part of an Integrated Pest Management program, and should not be the first
or exclusive choice for plant disease management. Chemical methods include seed treatment,
and foliar sprays or dusts. It is important to always use only the amounts specified on the la-
bels and to use the proper fungicide for the plant and the particular problem. It is necessary to
make sure the chemical is labeled for that particular plant.
Universidad Autónoma de Chiapas