Colder Winters May Not Kill Plant Diseases

Fungal pathogens have survival structures that enable them to withstand harsh weather conditions.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 7:14am

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A highly textured, abstract painting in earthy tones depicting intricate, swirling botanical forms and geometric shapes, conceptually representing the complex survival mechanisms of plant-damaging fungi.Resilient fungal pathogens may still threaten crops despite a harsh winter, requiring vigilant monitoring and management by growers.Belleville Today

Despite record low temperatures this past winter, growers may still need to worry about plant diseases this growing season. Fungal pathogens have survival structures that allow them to withstand very harsh weather conditions, meaning the cold snap may not have been enough to kill off plant diseases.

Why it matters

Understanding how plant pathogens can survive harsh winters is crucial for growers to properly manage diseases and protect their crops. Even after a cold winter, growers may still need to take preventative measures against fungal diseases that can threaten plant health and yields.

The details

Fungal pathogens have evolved specialized survival structures like spores and sclerotia that enable them to withstand freezing temperatures and other extreme conditions. This means that even though the Midwest experienced a long, cold winter, the pathogens may not have been killed off completely. Growers will still need to monitor their fields and take appropriate actions to control any lingering plant diseases.

  • The Midwest experienced record low temperatures this past winter.
  • Growers are now preparing for the upcoming growing season and wondering if they still need to worry about plant diseases.

The players

George Kapusta

A veteran no-till researcher and speaker at several National No-Tillage Conferences, who plans to retire later this year from Southern Illinois University.

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The takeaway

Even after an exceptionally cold winter, growers should not assume that plant pathogens have been completely eliminated. Proper monitoring and disease management strategies will still be crucial to protect crops this growing season.