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Dematophora root rot

Dematophora root rot   Dematophora root rot or white rot is a fungal disease that is less common than other pathogens that live in the soil. When it occurs, the disease has the potential to rapidly kill plants. The causal fungus is called Dematophora (or Rosellinia) necatrix. The disease is most active during mild, wet conditions. It infects primarily through healthy roots growing near infested plants or in infested growing media Symptoms Wilting, yellowing or browning of the entire plant or just a portion of the plant. Signs A dense white/tan mycelium (fungus body) growth located at the base of the plant or on lower stems. The mycelial growth will have a mushroom-like odor. Susceptible plants: Ornamental nursery and perennial hosts such as cotoneaster, holly, viburnum, iris and peony.

Management: Management of the disease will occur only through: Immediate removal and destruction of infected plants Use of pasteurized potting media Adequate drainage and avoidance of over irrigation Use of pathogen free stock There are no fungicides labeled for control of this disease.

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