Dr. Robyn Roberts
Field Crops Pathologist and CSU Assistant Professor
Robyn.Roberts@colostate.edu*
970-491-8239
*Email is the best way to reach me
Disease Observations
Root Rot
A root rot disease was found in a few fields in Kit Carson County in spotty areas (Figure 1). Root rot pathogens generally favor wet weather and mild soil temperatures for infection. However, symptoms usually appear after the weather becomes warmer and dryer. Root rot diseases typically develop in nutrient-deficient soils with poor drainage, and/or high nitrates. Wheat with root rot initially appear chlorotic (yellow), stunted, and have poor tiller development. Roots are blackened and rotten with visible fungal mycelia. Root rot diseases are more common in fields that have not been in rotation.