Roots and lower stems poorly developed and can be rotted. Although many root pathogens can invade this dying tissue, the burrowing nematode can cause these symptoms in the absence of fungal pathogens. Symptoms - Lesions appear as necrotic areas between leaf veins. If infestations are high, the leaves can appear striped with infested and healthy panels alternating. Reports of infestations have been made from seedlings primarily, since large plant appear to be resistant.
Heavy infestations result in leaf loss and eventually plant death.
Discard infested flats of seedlings as good control may be difficult with the nematicides available. Even a few infested seedlings in a flat can result in loss of the entire flat so identifying the disease early and destroying infested plants are critical to disease control. Infestations may go undetected until honeydew or sooty mold is observed. Aphids can cause distortion of new growth or, in extreme cases, infested plants can be stunted. Control - Aphids are relatively easy to control.