Root Rot
/root rot/🦠 Diseases● Basic
Also known as: Phytophthora, Armillaria root rot
Root rot encompasses several fungal diseases (Phytophthora, Armillaria, Pythium) that infect and destroy plant root systems. Symptoms include wilting despite adequate soil moisture, yellowing leaves, stunted growth, and eventual plant death. Overwatering and poorly drained soils create ideal conditions for root rot pathogens. Prevention focuses on proper drainage, avoiding overwatering, and using disease-resistant rootstock.
Etymology
From Old Norse rōt (root) + Old English rotian (to decay)
Example
“The waterlogged clay soil created perfect conditions for Phytophthora root rot, killing three boxwoods in the hedge.”