Black shank
scouted July 8, 2026
- Scientific Name
- Phytophthora nicotianae
- Background
- A tobacco field in Guilford County was being scouted, and it was observed that 90% of the field was affected by browning and wilting. A widespread issue in the field; no applications for three weeks before a sample was submitted to the PDIC for diagnosis.
- Conclusion
- The issue was identified as Black Shank of tobacco. This disease is caused by the soil-borne oomycete Phytophthora nicotianae and is one of the most destructive and widespread tobacco diseases in North Carolina. Black shank favors warm temperatures and wet soil conditions and can persist in soil for several years. The disease can occur at any growth stage of tobacco. The most common symptoms are root and crown rot, which lead to yellowing, wilting, and eventual plant death. An integrated management approach using resistant varieties, cultural practices, and chemical or biological controls is recommended to reduce long-term damage from black shank.
- Resources