I got my results from my Ag Agent today. Guess what,
NO TRACE OF FUNGUS!
Since this was a phone conversation, I don't know the spelling of all these terms, so bear with me. And I was so excited, I hope I didn't leave anything out...
I took all 4 Day Break brugs to her. She put my samples in some media to promote fungal and/or bacterial growth. She also did a "Moy's" (?) test. She also checked with a Plant Pathologist in Athens.
She will continue to monitor my samples and welcomes any others I may get.
My Results:
One sample out of 2 did show bacterial growth, which could be traced back to improper handling, ie; pruners, potting soil, stress, etc.
The "Moy's Test" was negative--(I guess that was really good)
The Plant Pathologist was a German Professor, he was familiar with Stenglebrand in Mums. They found it to be a bacterial disease they call Fireblight of Stems.
Her Diagnosis:
STRESS!
Especially with late cuttings which will be more prone to bacterial attacks.
My cuttings were so not-to-worry-about that she'd like a plant from me!
Her Recommendations:
Take cuttings while sap is still flowing
Soak cuttings in Physan or similar fugicide
Use sterile potting soil
Follow all the guidelines already discussed here, sterilize pruners, etc.
(although she did say 10% bleach would be fine)
She applauds our efforts here!
