The symptoms may also be very minor and inconspicuous. The fungi grow externally on the stem. The dark discoloration is the growth of the actual fungal pathogen. Circular areas may develop in affected fields. Sub-crown internode discoloration characteristic of common root rot.
Common root rot is less notable.
Damage to the sub-crown internode can be fairly minor, with injury and significant yield loss resulting. Injured plants may be randomly distributed in the field or in clusters. Foot and crown rot results in a scurfy, reddish-brown to white discoloration of the crown area. Plant tissue may take on a slightly pinkish to salmon color. The crown will become punky and dysfunctional.