Phymatotrichum Root Rot of Soybean
Published: 08/19/2021
Phymatotrichum root rot (also known as cotton root rot or Texas root rot) is a soilborne disease caused by the fungus Phymatotrichopsis omnivora. Phymatotrichum root rot has been reported in Texas and some counties in Oklahoma. This disease is a much greater problem on cotton and alfalfa in these states, as well as several southwestern states in the U.S. Phymatotrichum root rot is associated with alkaline soils only. This disease usually occurs later in the soybean growing season, coinciding with high soil temperatures (90s°F) and is particularly severe following a rain or irrigation.
Symptoms are rapid wilting and death of plants, along with extensive root rot. Dried leaves remain attached to the plants. A brown fungal growth may be seen on the surface of the roots. Following rain or irrigation, the fungus may produce a small (2” to 8” diameter) tan to brown spore mat on the soil surface near diseased plants. The disease is seen in the field on a few adjacent plants within a row, or more extensively, in somewhat circular areas, recurring in the same spot from year to year.
Phymatotrichum root rot symptoms at the edge of a soybean field.
Tom Isakeit
Signs of Phymatotrichum root rot on soybean root.
Tom Isakeit
There are no good management options for this disease on soybean. Rotation to monocot crops does not eliminate the pathogen, but keeps the disease from becoming more prevalent in future seasons. Other approaches such as deep tillage of crop residue, incorporation of organic matter into soil, or altered planting dates have a limited impact and/or may not be feasible in soybean production. There is no fungicide labeled for control.
Content developed and/or reviewed by Daren Mueller and Tom Isakeit.
Phymatotrichum root rot symptoms at soybean field edge.
Phymatotrichum root rot signs on soybean roots.
Phymatotrichum root rot symptoms at soybean field edge.
Gallery images courtesy Tom Isakeit.
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