Texas Root Rot

Texas root rot Common name Texas root rot Phymatotrichopsis root rot Phymatotrichum root rot Ozonium root rot Causal agent Texas root rot is caused by a soil-borne fungal pathogen that mainly attacks the roots. It is common in woody dicotyledons and grows in alkaline soil with low organic matter. Scientific name Phymatotrichopsis omnivora Symptoms & Signs Phymatotrichopsis omnivora causes sudden wilting and death of infected plants. The initial symptoms include chlorosis and browning, which lead to the death of the plant within two weeks. The roots turn brown, decay, and show signs of fungal strands. In some cases, spore mats may also be visible. Transmission It does not spread via the conventional transfer of spores through the wind. Instead, the mycelial growth on the roots transmits the infection to healthy plants when it communicates with healthy roots. The disease only occurs during hot summer months when the soil temperature increases to 80 °F (27 °C). Time of concern Late spring to summer Common hosts Peanuts Cotton Alfalfa Cherry Apple Pecans