Bacterial Soft Rot

Symptom

Bacterial soft rot in onion or garlic is most noticeable at harvest. The pathogen spreads from the leaves into the bulbs. Infected bulbs initially develop water-soaked lesions that change from pale yellow to light brown. The infection usually starts at the neck and, as it progresses, spreads into the inner bulb scales, causing cracking. The bulb tissue becomes soft and sticky. When cut open, infected cloves appear soft, discolored (pale yellow to brown), and emit a foul odor. Pressing on the bulb may release liquid, indicating severe bacterial soft rot. Above-ground symptoms may include wilting, yellowing, and lodging of plants. Other bacterial species can also cause similar soft rot symptoms in garlic.