My three-year-old raspberry patch is showing signs of root rot. What can I do at this point to correct the problem?
Not much. Root rot is a common problem with raspberries, especially those grown in poorly drained soil, and once it shows up, it continues to be a problem year after year.
Prevention is key.
This means picking varieties with decreased susceptibility and preparing the area where they'll be planted so that drainage problems are addressed before they become an issue.
In areas where drainage is extremely poor, you may need to install drainage tiles, but in most cases you can get away with building a raised bed filled with lots of organic matter. Although raspberry roots can extend down four feet, the majority are limited to the top foot of soil.
Also, don't plant raspberries in an area where previous canes have succumbed to root rot and don't plant them where potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, strawberries or eggplants have been grown since these plants are all susceptible to the same diseases.
If you have any questions or comments, please send them to me at vanessa@gardenmuse.ca.
Originally published in the Creston Valley Advance on September 9, 2010.
