Death may be rapid after wilting is noted. Woody tissue in the lower stem is dark brown due to fungal invasion. Wilt is frequently associated with root knot nematode infestations. Control wilt by planting tolerant varieties. Avoid deep cultivation that may injure roots and increase wilt incidence.
Symptoms consist of a light, grayish, powdery growth on the leaves, pods and occasionally the stems.
This powdery growth is easily rubbed off. When the disease is severe, plants turn yellow and defoliate. Generally, powdery mildew does not damage early planted peas. It can, however, be quite destructive on a fall or late summer crop. Small, reddish-brown pustules appear on both upper and lower leaf surfaces.