Plant Diseases
Wheat Diseases in Arkansas
Pythium Root Rot
Pythium root rot, caused by several species of Pvthium fungi, probably
affects every wheat plant in Arkansas at some time during the season. Above
ground symptoms include preemergence damping off, poor seedling vigor, stunting,
reduced tillering and delayed maturity. Diseased roots have soft brown lesions.
Small young roots are attacked more frequently than large older roots. Pythium
root rot is favored by cool wet soils.
Pythium root rot is difficult to control because the pathogen is found in all
agricultural soils. Planting high quality seed in a well drained seedbed is
beneficial in establishing a good stand. High levels of phosphorous has been
shown to reduce the severity of root rot. Fungicide seed treatments also may be
beneficial. See the Fact Sheet on seed treatments for more information.
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