Damping-off can be caused by Pythium, Rhizoctonia spp. Seeds can become infected

and fail to germinate. This disease affects cucumber seedlings, causing necrosis and death of

the plant. The soilborne fungi can invade the plant at or below the soil level (Florida Plant

Disease Control Guide, 1993).

 Cultural practices recommended for control of damping-off include avoiding planting in

soils that are not conducive to favorable emergence of seedlings, using fungicide treated seeds

and planting as shallow as possible (Hochmuth, 1988d).

 Table 4.9 lists chemicals that can be used for the control of damping-off. It is also

recommended that treated seed be used. Fumigant chemicals such as Telone or Vapam may also

aid in the control of soilborne diseases.



Table 4.9. Chemicals for control of damping-off.

Common Name Trade Name

Metalaxyl 2 Subdue G

Metalaxyl 25 Subdue II

Metalaxyl 25.1 Ridomil 2E


NOTE: For rate, use, and application to seed bed and field, refer to pp. 356-367 of the Florida
 Plant Disease Control Guide, 1993.


 Fusarium wilt is caused by Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. cucumerinum which infects the

plant at any stage of development. An overall wilting may result or individual runners may be

affected (Florida Plant Disease Control Guide, 1993).

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