Photographer:

R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Company

Symptoms

Description:

This fungus usually appears first in the plant bed, but infections occur at any growth stage. Sore shin appears as a brown discoloration of the transplant stem near or below the soil line. The affected area may increase in size after the plant is set in the field, sometimes extending several inches up the stalk. The stalk of an infected plant becomes brittle and may break up easily under pressure. Lower leaves of older plants may turn yellow; the plant is often stunted. Plants may wilt during the heat of the day. Diseased plants usually appear scattered in the field. In advanced stages of sore shin, large stalks may be dry and brown inside. Stalks with only slight infections produce near normal growth and yields unless the plants become stressed. Symptoms of sore shin may be confused with stem rot or black shank; accurate diagnosis requires microscopic examination.

Field

Host:

burley tobacco (Nicotiana tabacum (burley type) L.)