Shucks turn black rapidly and drop soon after. Lesions are black, sunken, and shiny. When infected nuts are cut open, the liquid in the kernel has turned brown. This can be controlled with foliar sprays of a fungicide applied when the pecans begin to fill. Small swellings are found on the rootlets.
Infected trees develop severe zinc deficiency symptoms.
Growers should examine all nursery trees before planting. Chemical control is not recommended. This condition most frequently develops after the kernel is damaged by stink bug attack which is followed by fungal invasion. Improper drying of the pecan can also result in kernel decay. Infected twigs are covered with small raised pustules with black centers.