Pythium root and crown rot
scouted April 30, 2026
- Scientific Name
- Pythium sp.
- Background
- A tobacco field, variety NC 960, was being scouted, and it was observed that 35% of the field was affected by damping off, blackening, and yellowing, in patches in random areas of the field, a few plants in a row. The field is flat. At planting, it was dry, then it got cold, and the wind blew sand across the field. A sample was submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis.
- Conclusion
- The issue was identified as Pythium root rot. Pythium root rot will cause severe stunting and yellowing, and it thrives in warm, humid conditions. Some of the things that can help are: increasing air circulation to reduce humidity in the greenhouse, sanitation of trays and equipment, as well as proper disposal of clippings, which can also help reduce the risk of disease. Terramaster4EC is labeled to prevent or rescue plants from further Pythium root rot development.