Red stele disease is worse in heavy soil or poorly drained planting sites. The fungus is most active in the spring and fall when soils are cold and wet. The discoloration may include the entire stele or only the stele at the root tips. These symptoms are best seen in the spring by cutting a root lengthwise. The fungus is restricted to the roots but any interference with root function is soon seen in leaf symptoms.
New leaves are small and bluish green, while old leaves turn yellow or red.
Plants are stunted, and little or no fruit is produced. Infected plants die out very quickly during dry weather. Winter injury can also cause plants to appear stunted but there will be discoloration in the plant crown that is not present with red stele. Select a well drained planting site with loamy soil. Purchase resistant plants from reputable growers.