Alfalfa

Sooner or later, all alfalfa stands experience losses due to root and crown rot. It is a major factor limiting the persistence of alfalfa fields. Root and crown rot is a complex disease with multiple causes. Fungal pathogens such as Phytophthora and Fusarium are the major biological components. Physical stresses such as improper cutting schedules, excessive drought, flooding, insect attack, or winter injury are very important for predisposing alfalfa to root and crown rot. Anything that depletes root carbohydrate reserves can be a predisposing factor.