This is called dry root rot. In telugu it is called "vereu kullu/purugu. The general symptoms of dry root rot are similar to those caused by
Phytophthora species and other agents that damage the roots or girdle the trunk. These include reduced vigor, dull green leaf color, poor new growth, and twig dieback. If extensive root damage occurs, the leaves suddenly wilt and dry on the tree.
The disease usually starts in larger roots and spreads into the crown. Patches or large areas of bark on the underground portion of the crown show a moist, decay, which later dries and adheres to the wood. In some cases, dry bark may also be seen aboveground. The wood below the dead bark is hard, dry, and stained grayish brown to purple. Unlike Phytophthora gummosis, dry root rot does not produce gumming, and the lesion extends deep into the wood. The initial infection may occur at planting or at any time during the life of the tree, but aboveground symptoms may only appear several years after the initial infection when the crown region has been girdled. Once the crown region is girdled, the
tree collapses.
COMMENTS ON THE DISEASE
Dry rot organisms often infect a tree through the crown or larger roots that have been injured by
Phytophthora fungi, mechanical injury, gophers, or root burn caused by a large overdose of fertilizers, herbicides, or nematicides. All common rootstocks are susceptible to dry root rot.
Although the disease is normally a chronic problem and generally only affects a few scattered trees in a grove, it can develop into an epidemic in some orchards. It is caused by
Fusarium solani infecting major roots and the root crown.
Fusarium solani typically is a saprophytic fungus that develops in dead and dying wood. The development of dry rot is not well understood, but tree stress and other injuries are believed to predispose the tree, allowing
Fusarium solani infection to develop into a pathogen that eventually kills infected trees.
MANAGEMENT
Good orchard management, especially careful irrigation, is essential for preventing dry rot. If the soil around the tree crowns and roots is saturated for long periods of time, the chances for injury and subsequent fungal infection increase. When establishing furrows, provide berms along the trees so that the crowns are protected from the water. Adjust sprinklers so that water does not hit the trunks. During cultural operations, avoid injury to the underground portions of the crown, especially during the cool and wet season. Follow label instructions for applying fertilizers, herbicides, and nematicides at recommended rates to avoid causing phytotoxicity and burning root tissue when excessive amounts of these materials are used. Before fertilizing young trees, wait at least 6 weeks after planting or until the trees show new growth.
Check regularly for signs of Phytophthora root rotor vertebrate damage that may provide entry sites for dry root rot. If you suspect a dry root rot infection, dig all the way around the tree because the decay may be underneath the crown roots or on one or more of the main lateral roots. You may be able to slow the spread of the disease by exposing the crown region and allowing it to dry. Prune the tree skirts and remove the soil from the crown region. Correct any adverse soil conditions, such as poor drainage. Remove trees that have become unproductive because of severe infection. No effective chemical treatments are available.
