Which crop is particularly affected by Damping-off pathogens?

Damping-off pathogens are particularly detrimental to floricultural crops, which include a variety of ornamental plants and flowers. This group of pathogens, primarily caused by fungi such as Pythium and Rhizoctonia, thrives in warm, moist conditions that are often present in greenhouse settings where these crops are cultivated. They attack seedlings during the germination and early growth stages, leading to seedling death both before and after sprouting, which is characteristic of damping-off disease.

Floricultural crops are especially vulnerable because they are often grown in high-density settings with significant humidity and moisture levels that favor these pathogens. It's not only their susceptibility but also the economic impact of damping-off on these crops that makes them a focal point for pest control advisers.

In contrast, while other crops like potatoes, corn, and wheat can be affected by various diseases, they are not the primary targets of damping-off pathogens, which tend to flourish in the controlled environments typical of floriculture where young plants are most at risk.