Tree problems · Disease
Texas root rot (cotton root rot): signs and what to do
Texas root rot (cotton root rot) is a tree disease, often seen on pecan and other fruit and nut trees. Look for: yellowing, then bronzing and sudden wilting of leaves in hot weather.
General information, not a diagnosis. A certified arborist or your county extension office can confirm.
- Disease
- Pecan and other fruit and nut trees
- Many other broadleaf trees and shrubs (grasses are not affected)
Signs to look for
Tick what you see. More ticks make it more likely, but only an on-site look can confirm.
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Season
It is most active in summer, when soil and air temperatures are high. Sudden wilting often shows up in the hottest months, and the patch of dead plants may grow slowly from year to year.
How it spreads
The fungus lives in the soil and moves slowly from one root to the next through strands in the soil. It has no airborne spread, and the spore mats on the soil do not spread the disease, according to extension sources.
Where it is found
Extension sources describe Texas root rot as a problem in the southwestern and south-central United States, in alkaline, limestone-based soils with hot summers. Check with your state extension office for your area.
Official sources
What to do
- 1
Take photos of the wilting crown and the dead leaves still attached to the tree.
- 2
Contact your county extension office to ask about confirming the disease. Confirmation involves finding the fungal strands on the roots.
- 3
Do not replant the same spot with susceptible broadleaf trees without local advice.
- 4
Ask your extension office about non-host plants such as grasses for the affected area.
- 5
Ask about soil changes some sources describe, such as adding organic matter, which have limited and uneven results.
- 6
Have a certified arborist remove dead trees safely, because dead roots can fail without warning.
Safety first: do not climb, do not cut near power lines and do not use a chainsaw on storm-loaded wood. Call the utility for downed lines and 911 if anyone is in danger.
Prevention
Extension guidance says to avoid planting susceptible trees on known infested sites, such as old cotton or alfalfa fields. Fungicides and fumigants are not considered effective because the fungus lives deep in the soil. Plant non-host species where the disease is known. Ask your extension office for local plant lists.
When to call a pro
Call a certified arborist when a mature tree wilts and dies fast, especially near a house, driveway or fence. Dead trees with rotted roots can fall, so removal calls for a trained and insured crew.
Not sure who to call? Read how to hire a tree service or check is my tree dangerous?
Trees it affects
Usually seen on: Pecan and other fruit and nut trees, Many other broadleaf trees and shrubs (grasses are not affected).
See all species in our tree library, or pick a tougher tree with the tree picker.
For tree companies
How to explain texas root rot (cotton root rot) to a customer
Explain that this disease is tied to local soil and heat, and that there is no easy cure. Be honest that replanting the same kind of tree on the spot can fail. Offer help with a safe removal and a plan for non-host replacements, and point owners to their extension office for confirmation.
Send this page to the customer after your visit so they can read the signs in plain words. See also selling plant health care and the job photo checklist.
Questions
What is Texas root rot?
It is a soil-borne fungal disease that kills the roots of many broadleaf trees and plants. It is also called cotton root rot.
Where does it happen?
It is mainly a problem in the southwestern and south-central United States, in alkaline, limestone-based soils with hot summers. Ask your extension office about your area.
Can a tree be saved?
Extension sources say there are no effective long-term cures. Once a tree wilts suddenly, it usually dies. Ask your extension office what options exist for your site.
Which plants are safe to replant?
Grasses and other plants in the monocot group are not affected, according to extension sources. Ask your local office for a plant list that suits your site.
Will it spread to my other trees?
It spreads slowly through the soil from root to root. Nearby susceptible plants can be affected over time. Watch the edges of any dead patch.
Do fungicides work?
Extension guidance says fungicides and fumigants are not effective because the fungus lives deep in the soil. Check with your extension office before spending money.
Can Lirevon diagnose texas root rot (cotton root rot) on my tree?
No. Lirevon is a remote marketing team for tree service companies and does not do tree work. This page is general information, not a diagnosis. A certified arborist or your county extension office can confirm what is wrong with your tree.
How do I find a good local pro for this?
Search Google Maps for certified arborists or tree services near you, read their reviews and ask for proof of insurance. Get two or three written quotes. Our guide on how to hire a tree service lists the questions to ask.
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