Detailed Explanation of the Latest Control Methods for Chinese Cabbage Soft Rot

Chinese cabbage soft rot, also called "rotten lump," mostly begins during the head-forming stage. In the early stage of the disease, the outer leaves appear wilted and drooping under sunlight, but still recover in the morning and evening. As the disease progresses, these diseased leaves no longer recover, exposing the head. The lesions are water-soaked, and the diseased tissue turns brown, rots and becomes slimy, with a foul odor.

Control Methods

1. Practice crop rotation: Where conditions permit, paddy-upland rotation is preferable. Do not apply diseased organic fertilizer. Plow deeply and sun-bleach the soil to control the source of the pathogen.

2. Use high-ridge cultivation, which helps with drainage and prevents waterlogging, and can reduce the occurrence of the disease.

3. Irrigate and fertilize rationally: Apply sufficient basal fertilizer and timely topdressing so that the seedlings grow vigorously and their disease resistance is enhanced.

4. Remove diseased plants promptly: Removing diseased plants can reduce the source of inoculum and prevent the pathogen from spreading. Especially before irrigation, check and handle them promptly. Sprinkle lime into the holes for sterilization.

5. Pay attention to pest control: Avoid causing wounds, so as to prevent the pathogen from invading.

6. Choose disease-resistant varieties: Generally, green-stem varieties and first-generation hybrids have stronger disease resistance.

7. Chemical control: The following pesticides may be used: agricultural streptomycin, one small packet diluted in 100 kg of water, or 70% Dexon at 600 times for root drenching; alternatively, 20% Longkejun at 600 times or 47% Jiaruinong at 800 times, once every 7 days, sprayed 2-3 times consecutively.