Abstract

Fungi were subcultured and identified to genera from 24 species of bare-root herbaceous perennials held in commercial cold storage chambers. Ten genera dominated the cultures. Although no pathogenicity tests were conducted, most genera were usually considered to be saprophytes or opportunistic pathogens which often infect previously damaged tissue. Other species of perrennials were harvested from commercial fields and given a Benlate dip fungicide treatment prior to storage. After six months, crowns were removed, rated for mold development, potted, and evaluated for quality of regrowth. Surface molds were generally suppressed by Benlate (Benomyl 50WP), but regrowth was rarely improved and often reduced. Use of fungicides to improve cosmetic appearance of stored herbaceous perennials is not recommended on the basis of these results.