Dematophora root rot (Rosellinia root rot)
Dematophora necatrix
Also Known As - Rosellinia root rot (Dematophora root rot )What is Dematophora root rot (Dematophora necatrix, Rosellinia necatrix)?
Dematophora root rot, also known as Rosellinia root rot or white root rot, is primarily caused by the fungus Rosellinia necatrix. Although it is not commonly found in landscape settings, it can have severe consequences for various woody plants, including fruit trees like apple and pear, avocado, cotoneaster, holly, poplar, and viburnum. Infected plants exhibit wilting, yellowing, and stunting. The roots decay and turn black, leading to their deterioration. Rosellinia produces cobwebby mycelia, which can be seen on the lower trunk, in soil over infected roots, or beneath the bark.
How does Dematophora root rot (Dematophora necatrix, Rosellinia necatrix)?
Rosellinia necatrix reproduces and spreads through several means. The fungus can persist in soil for years through dried pieces of infected bark and wood. It produces cobwebby mycelia that can grow from infected roots or spread through the soil when conditions are moist. Root contact or grafting between nearby plants of the same species allows for the transfer of the fungus. Additionally, spore-forming structures called coremia can be produced, contributing to further dissemination of the disease.
Symptoms
1 - Effects on plants
• Infected plants experience wilting, yellowing, stunting, and root decay, leading to a decline in health and eventual death. • This can result in reduced crop yields, loss of ornamental plants, and economic losses for farmers.
2 - Effects on soil
• Decay of infected roots contributes to organic matter decomposition, affecting soil structure and nutrient availability. • The disease can also lead to soilborne inoculum buildup, increasing the risk of future infections. • The spread of Dematophora root rot can disrupt natural ecosystems and impact biodiversity.
Solutions
1 - Preventive Measures
• Source healthy plants from reputable nurseries to reduce the risk of introducing the pathogen. • Implement proper site preparation techniques, such as ensuring good soil drainage and avoiding waterlogged conditions. • Plant susceptible hosts on raised beds or soil mounds in areas with poor drainage. • Provide optimal cultural care, including appropriate watering, fertilization, and overall plant health management.
2 - Cultural Practices for Management
• Promptly remove and dispose of infected plants to prevent further spread of the disease. • Break root grafts by trenching around the infected site to inhibit fungal spread between nearby plants. • Clean soil and remove root debris to minimize the presence of inoculum before replanting. • Establish a dry (unirrigated) zone in the area where an infected plant was located to prevent soil movement and water runoff.
3 - Expert Consultation and Monitoring
• Seek expert advice from a plant pathologist or agricultural extension service if Dematophora root rot is suspected. • Promptly confirm the diagnosis to ensure appropriate management strategies are implemented. • Regularly monitor plants for symptoms and early detection of the disease to take immediate action if needed.
Susceptible Species
FAQ
Do shade growing plants need any Sunlight?
Shade growing plants do need sunlight, although they require less than other plants. They need some direct sunlight each morning to help them photosynthesize and grow properly. Also, indirect sunlight throughout the day helps them stay healthy. Shade growing plants will benefit from the sunshine, but if they get too much or too little, then they can suffer the consequences. It's important to pay attention to the needs of your plants so that you can provide them with the proper light for optimal growth.
How often should you water indoor plants?
Indoor plants should be watered when the soil feels dry to a depth of about two inches, usually about once a week. A helpful technique to determine your plants' watering needs is to feel the soil before and after watering to get a sense of how long it takes to dry out. An important note to remember is that some plants require less water than others, and it's best to research the specific needs of your individual plants. Likewise, if your home is very dry, you might need to water more often as the lack of moisture can stress the plants and lead to problems like brown leaves and wilted stems.
Can my monstera plant get root rot?
Yes, a plant can get root rot. Root rot is a fungal disease that can be caused by over-watering, poor soil drainage, or high humidity levels in the air. Signs of root rot include yellowing leaves, wilting and stunted growth, and damaged or browning root systems. Sometimes it is difficult to detect root rot until the plant is removed from the soil, as the problems are mainly below the soil surface. Treating root rot usually involves removing the affected parts of the plant and replanting the unaffected ones.
Can I put my Monstera outside in summer?
No, you should not put your Monstera outside in summer. Monstera plants need warm, humid air to thrive, and direct sunlight can scorch their leaves. Instead, put your Monstera in a bright, sunny spot with indirect light, making sure the sun never directly hits the leaves. During the summer, keep your Monstera's soil damp and mist it occasionally to keep the leaves hydrated. At nighttime, keep the temperature around 16 - 21°C (60 - 70°F). You can definitely take your Monstera outdoors for short periods of time, just make sure to bring it back in if it starts to get too hot.
What happens if my monstera plant gets too cold?
If your monstera plant gets too cold, it will become vulnerable to pests, disease, or other damage. Cold temperatures can damage the leaves of the plant, causing them to become spotted or limp. The roots of monstera plants may also suffer in cold temperatures, leading to root rot or other diseases. Belonging to the tropical family, monsteras are used to warm environments and do not do well in cold temperatures, so it is important to ensure your plant is kept in conditions that suit their needs.
Is it possible to grow a vegetable garden in a small space?
Yes, it is possible to grow a vegetable garden in a small space. Gardening in a small space can be as simple as growing a few containerized plants in pots and raised beds, or as elaborate as vertically stacking planters, hanging pouches, and hanging baskets on a wall, railing, or fence. Regardless of the size of the space you are working with, some simple techniques such as companion planting, organic fertilizers, and water conservation can help you get the most out of your small vegetable garden.
Is peppermint herb green good for digestion?
Peppermint herb is indeed beneficial for digestion. The flavonoids in the herb support digestion by reducing inflammation in the digestive track, aiding in digestion and relieving indigestion, heartburn, and even the symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome. Additionally, peppermint is naturally rich in menthol, which helps to relax the muscles of the stomach, aiding in the digestion of food. Peppermint herb can be consumed in a variety of forms, such as teas, tinctures and capsules, as well as by adding the herb to food or directly to water or tea.
Should peppermint herb green be consumed daily?
No, peppermint herb green should not be consumed daily. This is because it contains high levels of menthol, which can be toxic if taken in large doses. Additionally, consuming large amounts of peppermint herb green could interfere with the absorption of essential minerals and vitamins, potentially causing vitamin deficiencies. For these reasons, it is best to consult with a doctor before incorporating peppermint herb green into your daily diet.
