Heavy rains flag 'water mold' warning for local growers

Mar. 8—The rain may be a welcoming sight for local growers but increased moisture levels can lead to other problems such as a soilborne "water mold" referred to as phytophthora.

Phytophthora is a microorganism that primarily relies on water to transport it to potential hosts. High winds and heavy rains create the perfect environment for spreading phytophthora onto vulnerable plant surfaces such as pruning cuts or new shoots.

While not necessarily fatal, the disease typically causes root and crown rot at the base of trees with a few aerial strains that can travel upward into the canopy. An infection may result in branch dieback that requires significant work and expense to rectify.