What is Phytophthora?
The name Phytophthora originates from the Greek for “plant destroyer” and it is one of the world’s most destructive plant pathogens. But what is Phytophthora? With around 120 species of Phytophthora being identified around the world, the pathogen causes a range of different symptoms, some more severe than others.
The most commonly known species of Phytophthora is Phytophthora infestans which attacks the stems and leaves of potato plants and causes Potato Blight. Infact, this was the disease that contributed to the potato famine in the 1800s.
Another two commonly known species of Phytophthora are:
Phytophthora Ramorum
Phytophthora Ramorum (P. Ramorum) is considered one of the more destructive species and is reportable to the Forestry Commission when identified within England. P.Ramorum has been identified as originally spread from Rhodedenfrom ponticum which is highly susceptible to the pathogen and produces large numbers of spores, spreading the infection to other plants.
Larch trees are also very susceptible to P.Ramorum’s algae like organisms and, similar to the Rhodedendrom, produce high amounts of spores when infected. P.Ramorum is now most commonly found in Larch trees, but can also be found affecting European Sweet Chestnut trees or Oak trees as well as others.
Phytophthora Sojae
Phytophthora Sojae (P. Sojae) is the cause of Phytophthora Root and Stem Rot. This is a soil borne disease that causes seed and stem rot of plants at various growth stages. Primarily found in heavy or waterlogged soils, P. Sojae can survive in the soil for many years without requiring a host plant.
Phytophthora Root and Stem Rot can be identified by dark discolouration of the plant stem, which extends up from the soil. As the disease progresses, the plant typically dies.
Contact Us:
At ProHort Ltd, we can carry out Phytophthora testing that identifies whether your plants are infected by Phytophthora, providing you with the option to carry out the test yourself or for one of our professional horticulturists to visit the site and complete the test for you.
For more information, get in touch with us on 01782 479 479 or email [email protected].
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