Dieback- Root rot – Ink disease – Phytophthora cinnamomi

Dieback Common name Dieback Root rot Ink disease Causal agent It is caused by a soil-borne plant pathogen belonging to the genus phytophthora Scientific name Phytophthora cinnamomi Symptoms & Signs It is a slow-developing disease and causes the death of stems, twigs, branches, and roots. The plant growth gets stunted with reduced leaf and stem sizes. It causes overall weakening of the plant, leading to diseases, premature shedding, and discoloration. Under extreme conditions, the plant may also die. Transmission It spreads through infected soil, tools, animals, insects, wind, and water. Time of concern Early spring to late summer Common hosts Azalea Grass trees Eucalyptus Hakea