PlantArmor

Home › Pests & diseases › Phytophthora Heart Rot

Phytophthora Heart Rot: signs and treatment in Jamaica

A lethal rot affecting the central whorl of pineapple plants in poorly drained or overly wet conditions. PlantArmor's crop guides list phytophthora heart rot as a common problem on pineapple.

Phytophthora Heart Rot: reference image from the PlantArmor field guide

Signs to look for

What to do

Ensure excellent drainage. Dip planting material before planting in a Phytophthora product, such as Ridomil Gold MZ (metalaxyl) or Omex Phortify (phosphite).

Crops it affects

Questions growers ask

How do I recognise phytophthora heart rot?

A lethal rot affecting the central whorl of pineapple plants in poorly drained or overly wet conditions. The signs to look for: Central leaves pull out easily from the whorl. Foul smelling, yellowish-white rot at leaf bases. Distinctive dark water-soaked margins.

What should I do about phytophthora heart rot?

Ensure excellent drainage. Dip planting material before planting in a Phytophthora product, such as Ridomil Gold MZ (metalaxyl) or Omex Phortify (phosphite). Always read the product label and observe the registered rate, re-entry period and pre-harvest interval before you apply any pesticide.

Which crops are affected by phytophthora heart rot in Jamaica?

PlantArmor's crop guides list phytophthora heart rot as a common problem on pineapple.

Check it in the field

The PlantArmor app works with no signal, so you can compare what you are seeing against its reference library standing in the plot, then log the spray you use along with its re-entry and pre-harvest intervals. Free to use.

This description and treatment come from the same reference library the PlantArmor app uses in the field. Pesticide registrations and permitted uses change — always read the current product label and observe the stated rate, re-entry period and pre-harvest interval.