Biology
White rot is a fungal disease which affects onions and related species. Cool, wet conditions may be followed by wilting and yellowing of leaves beginning at the base of the plant. Affected plants eventually die. Roots are destroyed and a white, fluffy mass of fungus may cover the bulbs. Small, black fungal structures may be present in the white fungal growth. These structures (sclerotia) are smaller and rounder than those of Botrytis neck rot. They are often found near the base of the bulb. Infected bulbs will continue to decay in storage, turning soft and watery. The fungus can persist in the soil for long periods. This disease is a serious problem of onions and related crops.
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