Phytophthora root and
crown rot—Phytophthora capsici, P. parasitica
Above ground symptoms of rot on peppers or eggplants include
rapid wilting and death of affected plants. Tap roots and
smaller lateral roots show water-soaked, very dark brown
discoloration of cortical and xylem tissue. Very few lateral
roots remain on diseased plants and the tap roots may also
be shorter compared with those of healthy plants. Stems
are usually infected at the soil line and may girdle. Stem
lesions are first dark green and water soaked, then later
dry and turn brown.
Life cycle
SolutionsPlant on raised beds with well-drained soil. In heavy soils that are poorly drained, root and crown rot
may be reduced by carefully managed drip irrigation. The disease can be effectively prevented by a program
integrating crop rotations of 2 years that excludes susceptible plants (corn, beans, or strawberries would
be good rotation choices), with irrigation management, clean seed, and transplants. Some resistant cultivars
may be available.
For more information, see the Phytophthora
Root and Crown Rot Pest Note. |
Phytophthora
on tomatoes; note dark stem
|
