The rainfall in Hardin County varied from 0.5 to 6 inches in one week. Cucumber beetles are the biggest concern right now. There are also some squash bugs in the first pumpkin plantings. Thrips were found in some strawberries earlier, causing damage. Blueberries, red and black raspberries are now being picked.
There was a report from a grower of tomatoes wilting and dying in a hoop house. Some of the plants had root rot along with Fusarium wilt. Nitrogen levels were high from plant tissue tests. A sample plant was sent to the lab. Upon slicing open the stem of an affected plant, there was brown vascular tissue blocking the flow of water throughout the plant. Sanitation in the house will hopefully help prevent the spread of the pathogen. Possible anaerobic soil disinfection and grafting of disease resistant varieties may be utilized in this situation on a trial basis to measure effectiveness.
Mark Badertscher – OSU Extension, Hardin County
Levi Yoder – Scioto Valley Produce Growers – contributor
Fusarium Wilt of Tomato