Infected plants may be stunted and yellow. The fungus invades the root system and colonizes the vascular system. In doing so, water movement is blocked and toxins from the fungus alter normal cell function. Cutting the base of the stem reveals a dark woody portion. No control is available other than a long rotation.
All varieties are susceptible.
Root becomes enlarged and distorted. See the section on root knot nematodes. No resistant varieties are available. There are several leaf spotting organisms which attack okra. However, none have been shown to cause economic loss.