Crown Gall
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When it strikes
About
Crown gall (Agrobacterium tumefaciens) is a soil-borne bacterium that induces tumour-like galls on roots and stems of roses, fruit trees, grapes and many woody plants, entering through wounds.
Symptoms
Rounded, rough, woody galls at the soil line, on roots, or on stems, starting soft and cream-coloured then hardening and darkening; reduced vigour and stunting.
Organic Treatment
Remove and destroy severely affected plants; on minor galls, excise and treat wounds. Dip new roots in a Agrobacterium radiobacter K84 biocontrol before planting.
Chemical Treatment
No curative chemical; the K84 biological preventive is the standard protection for susceptible nursery stock.
Prevention
Buy clean nursery stock, avoid wounding roots and stems, treat susceptible plants with K84 at planting, and don't replant galled sites.