Root and Stem Rot
Phytophthora syringae
2 host plants
Last updated
Root and stem rot causes decay and wilting of affected plants. Improve drainage and avoid soil moisture stress. Remove infected plants. Rotate to new land if possible. Select resistant varieties for future plantings. Proper drainage and good site selection are critical to prevent root disease problems. Monitor plants for early signs of decline or wilting Early detection and prompt management of symptoms help limit disease spread.
Root rots thrive in waterlogged soil, so drainage is your most important intervention. Avoid overwatering and ensure the planting site drains well. Remove severely affected plants to prevent spread to neighbors through root contact or contaminated soil. When replanting, choose resistant species or improve soil structure before putting anything back in the ground.
Quick Reference
Management
Cultural Controls
- Prevent mechanical injury to trees, especially late in the season. Avoid leaving trees on the ground during rainy winter weather. Plant on well-drained sites. Avoid mounding soil around the trunks. Also, do not \"heel-in\" higher than the collar. Harvest highly susceptible nursery trees during dry weather. Remove and destroy all infected plants and