Crown Gall – Agrobacterium tumefaciens

Crown gall Common name Crown gall Causal agent Crown gall is a bacterial disease that majorly affects root or crown of the plants. Scientific name Agrobacterium tumefaciens Symptoms & Signs A tumor or gall appears on the roots of woody plants. Initially, the galls are spongy and light in color. As the disease progresses, the gall hardens and also turns brown or black. Besides the roots, galls are also seen on the trunk and branches. It affects the absorption of nutrients, due to which the plant may face stunted growth. Transmission The bacteria enter the trees through wounds caused by pruning or stress. It travels to different plants through the infected soil by means of wind or water. Time of concern Early spring to late summer Common hosts Apple Pear Cherry Almond Walnut Raspberries