Ornamental and Turf Pesticide Applicators Practice Exam

What is a true statement about root rot management?

1. Can be completely eliminated with chemicals

2. Most can be avoided with clean plants and good drainage

3. Only affects trees

4. Is influenced by soil color

The correct answer is: Most can be avoided with clean plants and good drainage

The statement that most root rot issues can be avoided with clean plants and good drainage is accurate because proper sanitation and environmental conditions play critical roles in preventing root rot. Root rot is often caused by pathogens such as fungi that thrive in damp, poorly drained soils or attach themselves to contaminated plants. By ensuring that plants are disease-free and that there is adequate drainage to prevent waterlogging, the conditions that lead to root rot can be significantly mitigated. Good drainage allows excess water to escape, which reduces the likelihood of fungal infections that lead to root decay, while using clean plants ensures that no pathogens are introduced into the soil or surrounding area. Keeping these practices in mind is essential for maintaining healthy root systems in ornamental and turf applications. The other choices present misleading or incorrect information. The notion that root rot can be completely eliminated with chemicals is inaccurate, as chemical treatments may help manage the disease but cannot guarantee complete eradication. The idea that root rot only affects trees overlooks that many types of plants, including shrubs and herbaceous plants, can also be susceptible. Lastly, soil color may have direct or indirect implications on heat absorption or moisture retention but is not a significant determining factor in root rot occurrence.