Cylindrocladium Root Rot
Cylindrocladium spp. (now Calonectria spp.)
1 host plant · Fungal
Last updated
Cylindrocladium root rot attacks roots causing decline and poor growth. You see wilting and yellowing despite proper irrigation. The fungus favors warm, wet soils. Use well-draining soil media and avoid overwatering.
Root rots thrive in waterlogged soil, so drainage is your most important intervention. Avoid overwatering and ensure the planting site drains well. Remove severely affected plants to prevent spread to neighbors through root contact or contaminated soil. When replanting, choose resistant species or improve soil structure before putting anything back in the ground.
What Should I Do?
- Use disease-free nursery stock
- Inspect and discard diseased plants
- Amend soils with composted organic matter
Quick Reference
Management
Late spring through fall (May-October). Root susceptibility highest when soil temperatures exceed 65°F.
Warm soil temperatures (>65°F) and soil moisture with free water; zoospore release from sporangia requires high soil water potential.
Cultural Controls
- Use disease-free nursery stock
- Inspect and discard diseased plants
- Amend soils with composted organic matter
- Plant in raised beds at least 12 inches above surrounding soil
- Do not overwater
- Provide good drainage in beds and containers