Root rots and wilts (Fusarium oxysproum, F. avenaceum & var Fusarium spp, Pythium & Rhizoctonia spp.)

Root rots and wilts: biology

Root rots are caused by the same fungi that cause seedling blights. They can attack the plant at any stage of crop development. Symptoms are more noticeable if the crop is exposed to unfavorable conditions, such as drought and heat (especially with wilt diseases) or waterlogging.

Randomly scattered or patches of plants turn yellow, become stunted and may die prematurely. Roots show a brown or blackish decay and may break off if the plant is pulled.

Damage is seldom significant in lentil and chickpea, but may be more important in pea crops subject to environmental stresses.