Charcoal Rot

Macrophomina phaseolina

2 host plants

Last updated

Data Maturity Baseline

This profile contains verified disease data from extension databases. Regional field notes and expert review are in progress.

Charcoal rot causes internal discoloration of wood and decline in affected plants. You see blackish staining in wood with reduced vigor and growth. The fungus favors hot conditions and weak trees. Proper drainage, watering, and stress reduction help manage this disease.

Plant certified stock on well-drained fertile soil adapted to strawberry production. Use resistant cultivars if available.

Quick Reference

Causal Agent
Macrophomina phaseolina
Host Plants
2
Spread
Microsclerotia dispersed in infested soil; can survive years in field debris.
Favorable Conditions
Warm soil (25-30°C / 77-86°F); high soil moisture. Chlamydospores germinate i...

Management

Vulnerability Window

Late spring through summer in warm soil conditions (June-August).

What Triggers Infection

Warm soil (25-30°C / 77-86°F); high soil moisture. Chlamydospores germinate in warm conditions.

Cultural Controls

  • Plant certified stock on well-drained fertile soil adapted to strawberry production.
  • Use resistant cultivars if available.
  • While planting, keep roots from getting dry, and set plants at the proper depth.
  • Use long crop rotation in commercial plantings; include grasses and grains in the rotation.
  • Anaerobic Soil Disinfestation may be helpful even in the PNW.
  • First rice bran is incorporated into the soil followed by irrigation to near field capacity.

Host Plants (2)