Prévention et Solutions Commerciales

Root rot, a particularly aggressive fungal disease, represents a major challenge for pear growers in France. Caused by pathogenic fungi such as Armillaria mellea , Rosellinia necatrix , or Phytophthora spp. , it directly attacks the roots and collar of trees. Without proper management, root rot can cause considerable losses. This article examines the symptoms, causes, and available treatments. At the end of your reading, discover how Arboriverse, a wholesale supplier of fruit plants, can help you replace your infected trees.


Symptoms of Root Rot

On the foliage

  • Yellowing leaves: Foliage turns yellow, a symptom of water stress caused by damaged roots.
  • Reddening and wilting: These symptoms progress rapidly to complete drying out, often in the middle of the growing season.

At the bark level

  • Peeling: The bark peels off easily at the collar and roots, exposing patches of white mycelium.
  • Deep necrosis: Fungal infections cause irreversible destruction of the tissues beneath the bark.

Presence of mycelium and rhizomorphs

  • White mycelium: Visible under the bark, it indicates advanced fungal activity.
  • Black rhizomorphs: These cord-like filaments are characteristic of Armillaria mellea root rot.

Factors Promoting the Development of Root Rot

  • Excessive moisture: Poorly drained soil or soil saturated with water after frequent rains provides an environment conducive to the proliferation of fungi.
  • Tree stress: Trees weakened by nutritional deficiencies, drought, or mechanical injury are more at risk.
  • Proximity to infected trees: Root rot is transmitted by root contact or via spores carried by contaminated water and tools.
  • Soil rich in organic matter: Heavy soils or soils rich in undecomposed organic matter are particularly vulnerable.

Root Rot Prevention

  • Choosing the right rootstocks: Choose resistant rootstocks such as Pyriam or Franc Kirchensaller, which are more tolerant of fungal infections.
  • Optimal drainage: Improve soil drainage by creating gentle slopes or incorporating amendments such as coarse sand.
  • Watering control: Avoid overwatering, especially in clay soils. Adopt localized watering to precisely meet the trees' needs.
  • Injury Management: Avoid heavy work around roots to reduce the risk of injury. Disinfect tools before each use to limit the spread of spores.
  • Crop rotation: Do not immediately replant susceptible fruit trees in soil where root rot has been identified. Leave the soil fallow or grow non-susceptible species.

Biological Treatments

  • Mycorrhizae: Introduce beneficial mycorrhizal fungi to boost the roots' natural resistance against pathogens.
  • Biological products: Treatments based on Trichoderma spp. , an antagonistic fungus, can limit the activity of the agents responsible for root rot.
  • Strict cultural hygiene: Remove and destroy seriously infected trees, then disinfect the soil before replanting.

Conventional Treatments

  • Specific fungicides: Fosetyl-Aluminium, a systemic fungicide, can be applied directly to the roots.
  • Mechanical interventions: Removal of infected trees and cleaning of roots followed by disinfection.
  • Soil Amendments: Add lime amendments to reduce soil acidity.

Impact of Root Rot

  • On tree growth: Damaged roots lead to slowed growth.
  • On yield: Less fruit and poor quality.
  • On orchard survival: Tree mortality and costly replanting.

Business Solutions with Arboriverse

At Arboriverse, we understand the economic and emotional impact of losses caused by root rot. We offer comprehensive solutions to help growers renew and strengthen their orchards.

Why choose Arboriverse?

  • Professional quality plants
  • Competitive prices
  • Fast and careful delivery

Our adapted products

  • Resistant rootstocks
  • Professional quality grafted pear trees
  • Certified plants

Support services

  • Personalized technical advice
  • Free quotes within 48 hours

FAQ

  • What are the first symptoms of root rot? Yellowing, reddening, wilting of leaves, etc.
  • How to effectively prevent root rot? Drainage, suitable rootstocks, etc.
  • Can root rot be eradicated? It is difficult; preventative management is key.
  • Are biologics effective? Yes, although they are limited in advanced cases.
  • What to do with severely infected trees? Remove and burn them.
  • Does Arboriverse offer root rot-resistant plants? Yes, with a wide range of rootstocks.

Protect and Renew Your Orchards with Arboriverse: Contact Arboriverse today to discover our solutions tailored to your needs.