It is caused by the soil-inhabiting fungus, Phytophthora cactorum. The fungus attacks berries in the field at all stages of growth.
Fruit rot occurs when the berries come in contact with the soil.
The pathogen may also cause a serious crown rot, which may develop along with the fruit rot. Symptoms Symptoms are different depending on the fruit stage. On immature, green fruit, the infected areas appear dark brown or normal green with a brown edge. On ripe, mature fruit, they appear bleached and range in color from light lilac to purple, or there may be no change in color. Infected fruits are characteristically tough and leathery, having a bitter taste.