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Micronutrients reduce root rot in red clover (Trifolium pratense)

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Abstract

Red clover (Trifolium pratense) is an important component of mixed grass-legume leys; however, fungal root rot decreases red clover viability over time. Application of micronutrients may be one option to reduce the severity of the pathogens causing root rot. This study investigated the relationship between micronutrient (B, Cu, Mn, Zn) concentrations in red clover roots and the development of root rot, and examined whether the addition of micronutrients reduced root rot development. A field study was performed in 2009 to determine root rot incidence in red clover plants collected from four different field leys and a pot experiment was conducted in 2010 to determine the effect of micronutrient application (B, Cu, Mn, Zn) on root rot development in red clover. Disease severity index (DSI) and nutrient concentrations were determined in the plants.

The field study found an inverse relationship between increasing micronutrient (Cu, Mn, Zn) concentrations in plant roots and decreasing internal DSI. Internal DSI decreased with low element translocation from root to shoot and with increased Mn in the root as a result of Mn and Zn application. In contrast, the application of B or Cu slightly increased internal DSI.

Thus, an inverse correlation exists between some micronutrients and severity of root rot in red clover. The addition of Mn and Zn can reduce root rot and thereby increase the sustainability of red clover.

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  1. Rural Economy Agricultural Society, HS Konsult AB Hushållningssällskapet, Box 271, SE-701 45, Örebro, Sweden

    Eva Stoltz & Ann-Charlotte Wallenhammar

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  1. Eva Stoltz
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  2. Ann-Charlotte Wallenhammar
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Correspondence to Eva Stoltz.

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Stoltz, E., Wallenhammar, AC. Micronutrients reduce root rot in red clover (Trifolium pratense). J Plant Dis Prot 119, 92–99 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF03356427

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