Rotskade

Rotskade, or root rot, is a plant health condition characterized by decay of the root system caused by soilborne pathogens, primarily fungi and oomycetes, leading to impaired water and nutrient uptake and reduced vigor. It affects a wide range of plants, from ornamentals to crops and trees. The disease typically develops when susceptible roots are exposed to conditions favorable to pathogens, such as poorly drained or compacted soil, prolonged wetness, or rapid moisture fluctuations, often in combination with plant stress.

Causes include fungi and oomycetes such as Phytophthora, Pythium, Rhizoctonia, Fusarium, and Armillaria. Bacterial root rot and abiotic factors such as salinity, nutrient imbalances, or mechanical damage can also contribute to symptoms that resemble rot.

Symptoms are variable but commonly include wilting, yellowing or necrosis of foliage, stunted growth, and in many cases sudden decline. Affected roots are typically discolored, rotted, or degraded compared with healthy roots, and the root system may appear sparse or mushy.

Diagnosis combines symptom observation with root inspection and laboratory tests to identify the causal organism. Management emphasizes prevention and cultural controls: ensuring well-drained soils, avoiding overwatering, improving soil structure, selecting resistant varieties, practicing sanitation to prevent spread, and reducing plant stress. Infected plants or trees are often removed in severe cases to limit spread; soil drainage can be improved by amending soil or installing drainage systems. Chemical treatments may be used selectively in horticulture for specific pathogens, but durable recovery is often challenging once root rot is established.

Rotskade is an important concern in plant health due to its impact on yield, growth, and survival. Early detection and preventive practices are central to minimizing losses.