Texas Root Rot in Filberts
Hazelnuts or filberts are small trees or large shrubs that grow around 20 feet tall. Some growers cultivate hazelnuts as ornamentals, but others grow them for their flavorful and edible nuts. Filberts are susceptible to Texas root rot disease. Does this Spark an idea?
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Features
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The Phymatotrichopsis ominvorum fungus causes Texas root rot, also called phymatotrichum or cotton root rot, in filberts. The pathogen is most active in the south central and southwestern part of the United States between June and September. It prefers alkaline limestone soil and hot summer weather.
Effects
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The fungus that causes Texas root rot can survive for indefinite periods in the soil without a host. It enters filbert trees through their roots. Infected trees develop brown leaves that cling to the tree without falling. The roots suffer severe decay. A white mat of moldy fungus may form on the ground near the tree. Severe infections lead to tree death.
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Control
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No fungicides are available to treat Texas root rot as of 2011. Growers should avoid planting susceptible trees such as filberts in sites where the fungus has already caused problems. Filbert trees that are only mildly affected can be cut back to half the growth top and will usually recover within that growing season.
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