Variations in soil characteristics affecting the occurrence of Aphanomyces root rot of sugar beet - Risk evaluation and disease control

► Soils conducive to Aphanomyces root rot are characterised by low amounts of Calcium. ► Aphanomyces root rot was rare in soils with smectite/vermiculite minerals. ► Ca content above 250 mg Ca/100 g soil reduces problems with Aphanomyces root rot. ► Soil EC was negatively correlated to DSI in the soils. ► Measurement of soil EC may be a tool for risk assessment of Aphanomyces root rot.