Recently, the U of I Plant Clinic, has diagnosed many different plants with Phytophthora
root or crown rot. Phytophthora is a genus of soil borne,
fungal-like organisms that cause root, stem, and/or crown rot on many,
susceptible plants including field crops, fruits, vegetables, trees, and shrubs. Different species of Phytophthora
will prefer cool or warm weather, but all of them like it wet, which is one reason
they are commonly referred to as water molds. This season has been especially,
conducive to Phytophthora infection
with an extended spring bringing excessive rainfall. Below are a few examples
of different plant samples that have been received and diagnosed with
Phytophthora crown and root rot at the Plant Clinic. Management and links to more information on Phytophthora root/crown rot on trees and
shrubs, fruits and vegetables, and soybeans are below.
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| Phytophthora root and crown rot on a Juniper from a nursery. |
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| Phytophthora root and crown rot on soybean. |
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| Phytophthora crown and root rot on red raspberry. |
There is no simple "cure"
for Phytophthora root and crown rot disease. Prevention and proper cultural practices are
the best way to avoid or minimize losses. It's better to develop an
integrated disease management to conquer this disease. Many methods are
available, such as site selection, resistance species selection,
fungicide application, etc.
1. Exclusion - Buy healthy plants. If possible only buy plants that
come directly form the greenhouse and have not been grown in nursery
fields before sale.
2. Good Health - Place plants in proper location, plant properly, and keep in good vigor
3. Drainage - Avoid overwatering, low lying areas, or plant in raised beds
4. Resistance - Choose plants that are not as susceptible or tolerant to Phytophthora sp.
3. Drainage - Avoid overwatering, low lying areas, or plant in raised beds
4. Resistance - Choose plants that are not as susceptible or tolerant to Phytophthora sp.
5. Fungicide/seed treatment - gives partial control and is only used in commercial growing situations
Phythophthora on
Trees and Shrubs:
Phytophthora on Fruits
and Vegetables:
Phytophthora on
Soybeans:
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