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Sad peas #751987

Asked May 25, 2021, 9:44 AM EDT

Last year and this I have had a problem with green peas where the stem wiltz just above the ground. For a while the upper part of the plant looks fine while about a half inch section just above the ground shrivels to nothing. Then of course the rest of the plant shrivels and dies. Because this is above ground level I've wondered if it's an insect. Or is it merely dehydration? Thoughts?

Windsor County Vermont

Expert Response

Hello Joyce,

Thank you for your question.  You probably have already checked that they have enough water in our rather warm spring..but the problem could be a fusarium or near wilt.  You will see yellowing stems, and roots will be affected.   Plants should be removed from the garden (and discarded, not composted) if it is wilt as the disease will spread, and there is no chemical solution.  Crop rotation is suggested , but there are disease resistant varieties of peas..the package will have WR on the packet.

Let us know if you have more questions, and an additional photo of roots would also be helpful.

Good Luck!

Kathy ,EMG

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 26, 2021, 11:10 AM EDT
Thank you for your reply. Here are some more photos. This plant was very difficult to pull up and I believe the narrowed area on the root happened as I tried to get it out. I felt the outer "skin" of the root break and slide up as I tugged. I dug in deeper to get the root out but still broke it.  Who knew peas dig in so well! Are the nodules on the roots further sign of disease? 

Your diagnosis makes sense. I also see disease on a leaf and in reviewing my first photos I see it there too. Do the roots help confirm? Do you think my other beds of peas 10 to 20 feet away might be okay? Of course I will watch them.

Thanks
Joyce

On Wed, May 26, 2021, 11:10 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied May 27, 2021, 8:08 AM EDT

Hi Joyce,

Thanks for the clear photos.  Without our lab open to confirm, I am also wondering if it could be root nematodes.  That's a pesky worm.  The nodules on the roots might be from nematode damage.  That will cause yellowing leaves, and root cysts. Again there are treated seeds that prevent this.  Sorry for the loss of your pea plants. Just keep your eye on your additional crop.  Let us know if you have further questions.

(Dispose of your plants.  Don't compost them.)

Gardening is always a challenge!

Best, Kathy EMG

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 27, 2021, 11:35 AM EDT
It's always something! Disease pestilence! That's why I plant a variety of crops and mostly enjoy the ride! I am definitely always learning! Thanks so much for your help with this.  

Is a nematode visible? Would beneficial nematodes help? I have found a lot of various grubs this spring and wonder about the small white ones. The chickens love them all.  Bwah ha ha ha ha... 

joyce

On Thu, May 27, 2021, 11:35 AM Ask Extension <<personal data hidden>> wrote:
The Question Asker Replied May 27, 2021, 11:47 AM EDT

Love your chickens!  Nematodes are very small and might be seen best under a microscope.  You could check with your local garden supply spot about beneficial nematodes.  They could tell you about application and timing.

Good talking to you! 

Good Luck!

Kathy, EMG

An Ask Extension Expert Replied May 28, 2021, 10:11 AM EDT

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