Caribbean Tree Cactus (Consolea falcata)

Root rot is a serious fungal disease that affects the root system of plants, causing them to decay and die. It is primarily caused by overwatering, poor drainage, or soil-borne fungi such as Pythium, Phytophthora, Rhizoctonia, and Fusarium. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions where roots are deprived of oxygen, making them susceptible to fungal infection.

Crown rot is a serious fungal disease that attacks the crown (base) of the plant where the stem meets the soil. It is caused by various fungal pathogens including Phytophthora, Fusarium, and Rhizoctonia. The disease thrives in waterlogged conditions and can quickly spread to kill the entire plant if not addressed promptly.

Fusarium is a soil-borne fungus that primarily attacks the roots and vascular tissues of plants. It enters through small wounds or stressed roots, is favored by warm temperatures and waterlogging, and then obstructs the flow of sap. Symptoms include yellowing, often on only one side of the plant, wilting even with moist soil, stunted growth, and, when cutting the stem, internal brown streaks. It frequently affects tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, basil, cucumbers, and zucchini, as well as ornamentals like carnations and cyclamen. In potted plants, it can manifest as root rot with a darkened crown.

Scale insects are small sap-sucking pests that appear as brown, shell-like bumps on plant stems and leaves. There are over 25 species, divided into armored (hard) and unarmored (soft) scales. They feed by piercing plant tissue and extracting sap, which weakens the plant and can lead to yellowing, stunted growth, and even death if left untreated. They also excrete honeydew, which attracts ants and promotes sooty mold growth.