Young Vine Decline
Phaeomoniella chlamydospora, Phaeoacremonium spp. (P
2 host plants · Fungal
Last updated
This profile synthesizes data from multiple published sources. Expert field review is in progress.
Grapevines show stunted growth, shortened internodes, interveinal leaf chlorosis, and vascular discoloration in first 5-10 years after planting. Multiple fungi colonize xylem tissue during nursery grafting or from soilborne pathogens. Use virus-tested nursery material grafted under sanitary conditions. Plant in well-drained soil and avoid water stress. Systemics during nursery grafting help reduce incidence.
Cultural management is your first line: remove infected material, clean up debris, and improve the growing environment to make conditions less favorable for the pathogen. Avoid wounding plants during maintenance, as many pathogens enter through fresh cuts. Chemical options are available for severe cases, but they work best as preventive treatments applied before symptoms appear.
Quick Reference
Management
Young vines (first 3-4 years after planting). Pruning wounds in cool, wet season create entry points for secondary infection.
Nursery contamination; poor nursery sanitation; grafting in wet conditions; weak nursery vines; poor soil drainage; water stress; excessive nitrogen; pruning during wet conditions
Cultural Controls
- Use resistant or tolerant rootstocks
- Source pathogen-free nursery stock
- Maintain nursery sanitation
- Avoid grafting in wet conditions
- Ensure good soil drainage
- Prune only during dry periods