Description
Carpobolus orbicularis (Schwein.) Schwein. is a fungus that belongs to the family Sclerotiniaceae. It is commonly known as the "dollar spot" because of the small, circular spots it creates on turfgrass. The fungus infects the leaves of turfgrass and causes them to turn yellow, eventually leading to the death of the entire plant.
Origin
Carpobolus orbicularis is found throughout the world in areas with temperate climates, including North America, Europe, and Asia. It is most commonly found on golf courses, sports fields, and lawns. The fungus thrives in warm and humid conditions, making it particularly problematic during the summer months.
Uses
Carpobolus orbicularis is not typically used for any medicinal or culinary purposes. Its only known use is as a pest that can cause significant damage to turfgrass. Due to its ability to create circular spots and cause yellowing of the turf, it is considered a major problem for golf course superintendents, landscapers, and homeowners.
General Appearance
The Carpobolus orbicularis fungus appears as small, circular spots on the turfgrass. These spots are typically about the size of a silver dollar, which is how the fungus got its common name. The spots start out as a light yellow color and then turn brown as the leaves die. The fungus itself is not visible to the naked eye and requires a microscope to be identified.
Growth Conditions for Carpobolus orbicularis
Carpobolus orbicularis (Schwein.) Schwein. is a type of fungus that commonly grows on dead wood, particularly on hardwood. The growth conditions required for Carpobolus orbicularis are unique and require attention to details.
Light Requirements
The fungus does not require direct sunlight. It can grow in partial shade, and sometimes complete shade, as long as the wood it grows on is moist. Light is not a significant factor in the growth of this fungus, and it can thrive in dark or dimly lit environments.
Temperature Requirements
Temperature plays an essential role in the growth of Carpobolus orbicularis. The fungus prefers a temperature range between 15°C and 35°C (59°F to 95°F). It is a Mesophilic fungus, which means that it can grow well in moderate temperatures and does not require extreme temperatures to thrive.
Soil Requirements
Carpobolus orbicularis grows on dead wood and prefers hardwood. The fungus uses cellulose and lignin as its primary food source and can break down hardwood into these components. The fungus prefers moist environments, and the wood should be in contact with moist soil.
Well-drained soils with high organic content are best for the growth of this fungus. The soil should not be waterlogged, but it should be able to retain moisture, as excessive dryness can hamper the growth of the fungus by causing the wood to dry out.
In summary, Carpobolus orbicularis grows well on hardwood dead wood that is moist and in contact with well-drained soil with high organic content. The fungus requires moderate temperatures to grow and can tolerate low light or dimly lit environments.
Cultivation Methods for Carpobolus Orbicularis
Carpobolus orbicularis is an annual plant that requires a warm and moist environment to flourish. This plant grows well in loamy and fertile soils with good drainage. It can be cultivated from seeds, and it is ideal to sow them in spring or early fall to ensure proper germination. Sow the seeds at a depth of about 2-3 inches, and space them around 12 inches apart to ensure good air circulation.
Watering Needs of Carpobolus Orbicularis
Carpobolus orbicularis requires regular watering to keep the soil moist. The plant should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. However, avoid overwatering as it can lead to root rot and other fungal diseases. Ensure that the soil is well-draining and avoid watering the foliage to minimize the risk of fungal infections.
Fertilization of Carpobolus Orbicularis
Carpobolus orbicularis requires regular fertilization to ensure healthy growth. Apply a balanced fertilizer once every two months during the growing season. Alternatively, use a slow-release fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season and mid-summer to provide adequate nutrients for the plant.
Pruning Carpobolus Orbicularis
Carpobolus orbicularis requires minimal pruning. Deadheading spent blooms encourages the growth of new flowers. If the plant begins to look unkempt, trim back any damaged or leggy stems to encourage bushy growth. Prune the plant at the end of the growing season to tidy it up before winter.
Propagation of Carpobolus orbicularis
Carpobolus orbicularis is a plant species belonging to the family Sarcoscyphaceae. This plant is often identified by its whitish, orbicular-shaped fruiting body, which is found growing on decaying logs and stumps.
Propagation Methods
Carpobolus orbicularis can be propagated through spores. Spores can be collected from the mature fruiting bodies on decaying logs and stumps during the fruiting season.
Once spores are collected, the first step in propagation is the preparation of a culture medium. The culture medium must be sterile and provide the required nutrients for the growth of Carpobolus orbicularis mycelium. Agar is often used as a culture medium for this purpose.
The spores are then spread on the culture medium and kept in an incubator at a temperature of 25-30°C. The incubation period may vary from a few days to weeks depending on the culture conditions.
After the mycelium has grown sufficiently, it can be transferred to a substrate for fruiting. The substrate must be rich in nutrients and should mimic the natural habitat of Carpobolus orbicularis. Sawdust and wood chips are commonly used as substrates for fruiting Carpobolus orbicularis.
Once the mycelium is transferred to the substrate, the container should be kept in a dark and moist environment. Fruit bodies should start to appear within a few weeks, and the process can be repeated by using mature fruit bodies to collect new spores and begin the propagation process again.
Disease and Pest Management of Carpobolus Orbicularis
Carpobolus orbicularis is commonly known as a "round-spored earthball". The plant belongs to the family Agaricaceae and is known to be a saprophytic fungus. Here are some of the diseases and pests that usually affect this plant.
Common Diseases
Root Rot: Carpobolus orbicularis commonly suffers from root rot, a condition that affects the roots and causes them to decay. This disease is caused by a fungus or bacteria that thrive in overwatered soils. To control root rot, avoid overwatering, and ensure proper drainage of the soil. Affected plants should be removed and destroyed.
Mushroom Dry Bubble: This plant is also vulnerable to the mushroom dry bubble disease. The disease is characterized by the formation of air-filled cavities in the fruiting bodies. It is caused by a fungus and is known to affect the quality of the mushrooms. The disease can be controlled by using fungicides and by ensuring proper air circulation.
Common Pests
Slugs: Slugs usually feed on the leaves of Carpobolus orbicularis, causing significant damage to the plant. To control slug infestations, you can remove them manually or use slug traps. Copper barriers can also be used to keep slugs away from the plant.
Snails: Snails, like slugs, also feed on the leaves of the plant, causing significant damage. To control snail infestations, you can manually remove the snails or use snail traps. Copper barriers are also effective in keeping snails away from plants.
Fungi Gnats: Fungi gnats are attracted to moist soil and can cause damage to the roots of the plant. You can control fungi gnats by allowing the soil to dry out between watering and by using biological control methods like the application of nematodes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, managing diseases and pests in Carpobolus orbicularis involves taking preventive measures and early detection of infestations. Regular check-ups on the plant should be conducted to detect any potential infestations. Additionally, keep the plant healthy by providing the right soil, watering and light conditions, and maintaining proper hygiene and cleanliness to prevent infestations.
