Cool wet conditions can lead to seedling blights. They are caused by many different pathogens, including Penicillium, Pythium Fusarium and others including Rhizoctonia Solani. Fields more conducive to cool wet conditions (no till) are more susceptible to seedling blights caused by these pathogens. Also, low lying areas of fields that stay wet longer can be more at risk.
Seedling blights occur pre and post emergence – in either case plants are either weakened or end up dying prematurely. Fungicidal seed treatments ensure that even in poor conditions, seed is allowed to germinate and emerge without the serious issues that can take place when seed is unprotected.
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