The fungus on garlic bulbs can be Botrytis rot, particularly after warm, wet weather or during storage.
Botrytis rot, also known as neck rot or gray mold, is a fungal disease that can affect garlic plants and bulbs. While it may not always be present during the growing season (especially in cooler climates), it can readily develop on stored bulbs.
Here's a breakdown:
- Cause: Primarily caused by the Botrytis fungus.
- Conditions: Favored by warm, wet conditions during growth or storage.
- Symptoms:
- Gray mold on the neck or cloves of the garlic.
- Soft, rotting bulbs.
- May see small, black sclerotia (hardened fungal structures) on the affected areas.
Prevention and Control:
- Proper curing: Ensure garlic bulbs are properly cured after harvest to reduce moisture content. This involves drying them in a well-ventilated area.
- Good storage: Store garlic in a cool, dry, and well-ventilated location.
- Avoid injury: Handle garlic bulbs carefully to prevent bruising or damage, which can provide entry points for the fungus.
- Crop rotation: Rotate crops to prevent the build-up of the fungus in the soil.
- Fungicides: In severe cases during the growing season, appropriate fungicides can be used, although cultural practices are generally more effective for stored bulbs.
