Variety Selection
Choose classes or varieties with improved tolerance to Fusarium avenaceum indicated by a moderately resistant (MR) rating to Fusarium root rot (FRR) in the seed guide. Ongoing research investigates possible genetic resistance to root rot infections linked to darker seedcoats (caused by seedcoat tannins), particularly in lentils. Similarly, in field peas, ongoing research shows varieties with pigmented seed coats, such as the dun and maple pea classes, have partial resistance to Fusarium and other root rot pathogens.
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Seed Testing and Treatments
Seed testing is recommended to determine seed quality before planting. In addition to a standard germination test, a fungal disease scan can be requested to provide helpful management information before seeding. Identifying what seed-borne pathogens your seed carries can help inform seed treatment and field selection decisions.
Seed treatments are a proven option to protect against seed rot caused by Fusarium species and other root rot pathogens, such as Pythium and Rhizoctonia.
Provincial guidelines recommend using a seed treatment to control seed-borne Fusarium at 10% or higher infection levels.
Seed treatments should also be considered when seeding in adverse conditions, such as cool and wet soils, or if there is a known history of seedling/fungal disease in a particular field.
The fungicidal effects of seed treatments will only last for approximately 2–3 weeks, with some of the newer products providing up to 3–4 weeks of protection.
Rotation
Use management strategies such as rotation to minimize the risk of Aphanomyces root rot in conjunction with Fusarium spp. infections, as the two pathogens are more problematic together than individually. The longer time between host crops allows Fusarium spores to break down. Unfortunately, most commercial crops grown in western Canada are host crops for Fusarium species.
Agronomic Practices
Manage plant and root health by using good agronomic practices, such as proper fertility plans, applying safe rates of seed-placed fertilizer, using optimum seeding depth and dates, seed treatment, and plant pulses on well-drained fields, and doing your best to minimize plant stress.
