Dry Rot of Bulbs and Corms

Dry rot of bulbs and corms Common name Dry rot of bulbs and corms Causal agent Dry rot of bulbs and corms is a fungal disease caused by a member of the genus stromatinia. It affects bulb plants such as daffodils and gladiolus, both in storage and in the soil. Scientific name Stromatinia gladioli Symptoms & Signs The infection starts from the corms and moves up toward the leaves and bulbs. It causes chlorosis in the leaves and stunts the overall growth of the plant. The tissue starts to rot, with discoloration, softening, and a foul odor. The bulbs also show brown, sunken lesions. In some cases, the bulbs may show a blue or black mold. Transmission Dry rot of bulbs and corms spread through wind, water, and contact with the infected plant. It enters through open wounds, which may be caused by improper handling of bulbs or insects. Long periods of wet, cool weather causes an increase in transmission. Time of concern Early spring to late summer Common hosts Daffodils Freesias Gladiolus Tulips