Field Identification
A syndrome of wilting, stunting, yellowing, and collapse from decayed roots and crowns. Above-ground symptoms mimic drought or nutrient issues; inspection shows brown, mushy roots and often a lack of fine feeder roots.
Wet, heavy, or poorly drained soil favors oomycetes (Pythium, Phytophthora); Rhizoctonia often shows as reddish-brown lesions on subterranean stems. Exact pathogen usually needs lab diagnosis.
How to Deal With It
Organic Control Methods
Ensure drainage, avoid overwatering, use raised beds, and plant at correct depth. Choose resistant rootstocks or varieties when known.
Trichoderma spp., Bacillus subtilis, and mycorrhizal inoculants can improve root health and competitive exclusion when used as part of a soil-health program.
Rotate susceptible crops, incorporate organic matter to improve soil structure, and fix low spots or install French drains.
Remove severely affected plants with surrounding soil; do not compost. Sterilize containers and trays between seedling batches.
Biological fungicides based on Trichoderma or Bacillus as drench; potassium phosphite may be allowed in some organic programs as a plant-defense enhancer—verify certifier rules.
Let Nature Handle It
Natural Enemies
- Trichoderma spp.
- Competitive Soil Bacteria
- Mycorrhizal Fungi
Threat Map