ISHS Acta Horticulturae 23: I International Symposium on Flowerbulbs
HEAT THERAPY FOR CONTROL OF PYTHIUM STORAGE ROT OF BEGONIA TUBERS |
| Authors: | R.D. Raabe, K.F. Baker |
| Abstract:
A rot of begonia tubers resulting from infection by Pythium sp. frequently causes serious losses in storage. Tubers treated for 30 minutes in hot water at temperatures from 44.4° to 51.1°C (112° to 124°F) at ± 1.7°C (3°F) intervals were found to be free of the causal fungus. Aerated-steam treatments of 46.1°C (115°F) or higher also controlled the fungus. With aerated steam, it was necessary to heat the tubers at least 15 minutes longer to obtain the desired internal temperatures. Uninoculated tubers treated with hot water or aerated steam at temperatures up to 51.1°C (124°F) grew normally when planted the following season. | |
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