Stem Rot

Symptom

Stem rot is caused by a soilborne fungus. Disease development is favored; by hot and humid conditions or when the soil surface is moist in the peanut canopy. The fungus (a white moldy growth) primarily attacks the base of stems near the soil line, but any plant part in contact with soil may be damaged.  Because mycelium may also be seen growing on decaying plant matter on the soil surface. Infected plants are generally killed prior to maturity. Peg and pod infections are common and result in pod loss at harvest.