Dry root rot (DRR) is a significant disease, particularly affecting citrus trees, often exacerbated by various stresses. According to research [8], dry root rot is one of the main sources of citrus decline with higher incidence under biotic and abiotic stresses.
Symptoms and Progression
Understanding the symptoms of dry root rot can help in early detection and management:
- The disease begins with the browning of scaffold roots and the crown [9].
- Visible symptoms progress to wilting, indicating the roots are no longer effectively transporting water.
- Following wilting, dieback occurs, where branches begin to die from the tips inwards [9].
- Ultimately, if left unchecked, dry root rot can lead to the complete dieback of the tree [9].
Early detection and proper management strategies are essential to mitigate the impact of dry root rot on citrus orchards.