Brown Leaves on Pepper Plants

Identification

• Phytophthora root and crown rot is a fungal disease caused by Phytophthora capsici. The fungus is soil and seed borne and persists for extended periods of time in soil. Overly wet or moist ground favors fungal development.

Damage

• The fungus infects the roots and causes sudden browning, wilting and death of plants. Roots of affected plants are watersoaked and discolored. Stems are damaged at the soil line. Green and watersoaked lesions appear on stems and gradually turn brown and dry as disease progresses. The lesions girdle and kill stems. The disease infects pepper plants at any stage of growth.

Control

• Plant peppers in well-drained soil and avoid overwatering. Use resistant varieties. Rotate crops every two years. Treat soils prior to planting in areas with known cases of infection. Fungicidal control options include the use of mefenoxam, fluopicolide or products containing phosphorous acid.