A soil fumigant increases American ginseng (Panax quinquefolius L.) survival and growth under continuous cropping by affecting soil microbiome assembly: a 4-year in situ field experiment.

ABSTRACT

IMPORTANCE Numerous reports of soil fumigants and fungicides on annual crops exist; however, it is unclear whether the single application to perennial plants persistently improves plant growth and controls disease or whether it has a long-lasting impact on soil microbes. We found that soil fumigation enhances ginseng growth and suppresses root rot disease by reshaping the soil microbial community. Our findings benefit the agricultural development of ginseng and provide a theoretical basis for the prevention of ginseng diseases.