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Pink Root
(fungus - Phoma terrestris): Pink root is a soilborne disease that affects roots. Diseased roots turn pink, shrivel and die [Picture] As the plant sends out new roots, they also become infected and die. Affected plants do not usually die, although they may develop tip blight. Severe infection will reduce bulb size. The fungus can be introduced to a field by using transplants grown in infested soil. Once a field becomes infested, the fungus remains in the soil for many years. Soil fumigation has been shown to be an effective, but expensive, control measure. Resistant onion cultivars are one management approach, as is a long rotation out of onions.

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