What is a recommended management action for plants infected with Phytophthora root rot?

What is a recommended management action for plants infected with Phytophthora root rot?

• A. Remove and destroy infected plants
• B. Replant in same site immediately
• C. Water frequently to flush pathogens
• D. Use only surface fungicides on soil

Answer: (A)

Phytophthora root rot is a soil-borne problem that can persist in soil and debris, especially under wet conditions. The most effective first step is to remove and destroy infected plants and roots to eliminate the main source of inoculum, which reduces the chance of spreading the pathogen to healthy plants through contaminated soil, water, or tools. After removal, sanitize tools and avoid reusing contaminated soil around healthy plants. For replanting, address site conditions—improve drainage, avoid excessive irrigation, and choose resistant or non-host species if possible. Replanting in the same spot immediately is risky because the pathogen can survive in the soil and reinfect new plantings. Surface fungicides alone aren’t reliable for root rot control; they’re not a substitute for removing infected material and fixing cultural conditions as part of an integrated management approach.

Phytophthora root rot is a soil-borne problem that can persist in soil and debris, especially under wet conditions. The most effective first step is to remove and destroy infected plants and roots to eliminate the main source of inoculum, which reduces the chance of spreading the pathogen to healthy plants through contaminated soil, water, or tools. After removal, sanitize tools and avoid reusing contaminated soil around healthy plants. For replanting, address site conditions—improve drainage, avoid excessive irrigation, and choose resistant or non-host species if possible. Replanting in the same spot immediately is risky because the pathogen can survive in the soil and reinfect new plantings. Surface fungicides alone aren’t reliable for root rot control; they’re not a substitute for removing infected material and fixing cultural conditions as part of an integrated management approach.