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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.




















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