Cotton (Texas) root rot

Symptoms

Sudden, permanent wilt in mid- to late summer, usually in expanding circular patches; the leaves stay attached and turn bronze. Roots are rotted and covered with tan-to-brown fungal strands; plants pull up easily. Confined to alkaline, calcareous soils of the US Southwest.

Plants affected

• cotton (upland cotton)

Common questions

How do I recognise Cotton (Texas) root rot on cotton (upland cotton)?

Sudden, permanent wilt in mid- to late summer, usually in expanding circular patches; the leaves stay attached and turn bronze. Roots are rotted and covered with tan-to-brown fungal strands; plants pull up easily.

Do I have to report Cotton (Texas) root rot?

No. Cotton (Texas) root rot is not a notifiable organism, so there is nothing to report to an authority. Treat it as a normal garden problem.

How is Cotton (Texas) root rot treated?

Mainly with biological and cultural measures — removing affected material, changing the conditions that favour it, and treating with agents approved in your country. The exact steps and their timing depend on the plant, the season and where you live: Dr. Phyto works them out in a free diagnosis.