The expert noted: the degree of rot damage becomes apparent during harvest, and also depends on how quickly the bulbs can be dried. These two factors can significantly reduce the amount of bacteria entering the inside of the bulb and shorten their reproduction time.
Storms, heavy rains, and hurricanes create excess moisture in the beds, and strong wind or hail can completely press the leaves to the ground. If the foliage has only bent near the base and the bulbs are not yet fully formed, there is still a chance to recover.
Usually, a few days after unfavorable weather, the onions straighten up and continue to grow. However, rot processes and severe leaf damage prevent the plant from fully transferring carbohydrates to the bulb.
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How to help if onions and garlic rot due to rains
If the cause of rot is weather conditions, cover the beds with film stretched over hoops, leaving the ends open for ventilation. Immediately mulch the soil with dry peat mixed with sand – this mixture absorbs excess moisture.
Dig quick drainage ditches from the beds towards the fence to drain water from the plot. This is especially important to do in the last month before harvest: wet weather will greatly worsen crop preservation and may provoke the development of diseases (downy mildew, fusarium, and others).
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