What environmental conditions promote seedling diseases in cotton?

Seedling diseases in cotton are significantly influenced by environmental conditions, particularly temperature and moisture. Cool, wet planting seasons create an ideal environment for the pathogens that cause these diseases.

When temperatures are cool, growth and development of seedlings slow down, making them more susceptible to disease. The presence of moisture is critical because it can lead to excessive soil saturation, promoting conditions favorable for pathogens such as fungi and bacteria. These pathogens thrive in wet environments, where they can spread quickly and infect the vulnerable seedlings.

On the other hand, warm, dry conditions are less favorable for the development of many seedling diseases, as they discourage the growth of harmful pathogens. Similarly, cool, dry conditions would not provide the necessary moisture for pathogens to flourish. Therefore, the combination of cool temperatures and wet soil creates a perfect storm for seedling diseases in cotton crops.