Pecans with Cotton Root Rot: Understanding the Disease and How to Prevent It

As a pecan grower, you understand that there are many factors that can affect the health of your trees. One of the most devastating diseases that can afflict pecan trees is cotton root rot. In this article, we will delve into the specifics of this disease, including how it affects pecan trees, how to identify it, and most importantly, how to prevent it.

What is Cotton Root Rot?

Cotton root rot is a soil-borne fungal disease caused by Phymatotrichopsis omnivora. It infects the roots of susceptible plants, eventually causing the entire plant to wilt and die. This disease is found primarily in areas with alkaline soils, high temperatures, and low rainfall. Pecan trees are highly susceptible to cotton root rot, as are many other crops.

Identifying Cotton Root Rot in Pecan Trees

Early symptoms of cotton root rot include yellowing leaves and slow growth. As the disease progresses, the tree may show signs of wilting during the heat of the day, then recover at night. Eventually, the entire tree will wilt and die, typically within a matter of weeks. If you suspect that your pecan trees have cotton root rot, it's important to get them tested immediately.

Preventing Cotton Root Rot in Pecan Trees

Preventing cotton root rot in pecan trees requires a multi-faceted approach. Here are some strategies you can use:

1. Plant resistant varieties: There are several pecan varieties that are resistant to cotton root rot, including Cape Fear, Kanza, and Lakota. Consider planting these varieties if you live in an area where cotton root rot is common.
2. Improve soil drainage: Since cotton root rot thrives in wet soil conditions, improving soil drainage is crucial in preventing this disease. Installing tile drains, raising beds, or creating berms are all effective ways to improve soil drainage.
3. Fumigate soil: If you've had cotton root rot in your orchard before, fumigating the soil before planting new trees can help kill off the fungus. However, keep in mind that fumigation can be expensive and may not always be effective.
4. Maintain healthy trees: Strong, healthy trees are less susceptible to cotton root rot. Make sure your trees are receiving adequate water, nutrients, and sunlight. Additionally, avoid stressing your trees with excessive pruning or other practices that can weaken them.

The Bottom Line

Cotton root rot is a serious threat to pecan trees, but with proper prevention strategies, you can minimize your risk of infection. By planting resistant varieties, improving soil drainage, fumigating soil when necessary, and maintaining healthy trees, you can keep your pecan orchard thriving for years to come.

Healthy pecan trees

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