Black Root Rot

What it looks like

The above-ground plant looks stunted and yellow, similar to drought or nutrient trouble. But if you dig up the roots, they'll be blackened and rotted instead of white and healthy. It's most common on holly and boxwood, and often shows up on plants that were already infected when purchased.

Often mistaken for: Drought stress or nutrient deficiency

When it shows up in the Triangle

Shows up most in cool soil, usually during the first year after planting when new transplants are still getting established.

Where you’ll see it

Affects holly, boxwood, pansies, and other woody and bedding plants, especially new nursery stock and fresh plantings.

What you can do

• Check the roots of new plants (especially holly) before you plant them
• Skip soil amendments that push pH too high
• Make sure the planting area drains well
• Don't reuse potting soil from an infected container
• Watch new transplants closely in their first year for stress signs