Phytophthora root rot

This fungus is the most common cause of root and stem base decay of a wide range of trees, shrubs herbaceous perennials, bedding plants and bulbs. A number of different Phytophthora’s all causing very similar symptoms.

Signs of infection include wilting, pale or sparse foliage (particularly with conifers), stem and branch dieback, which gradually get worse until the affected plant dies. In many cases the symptoms get progressively worse until the plant dies. On examination roots have rotted away, with ‘staining’ under the bark of remaining roots. This infection is always worse during wet periods and waterlogged soils.