soft rot

plant pathology

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Last updated

July 13, 2026

Quick Summary

Soft rot is a plant disease characterized by the mushy, watery, or slimy decay of plant tissues. This decomposition is caused by various bacteria or fungi. The affected tissues often become soft and develop a water-soaked appearance, which can spread rapidly. A fuzzy gray mycelium and black spores may also form on the decaying parts. Soft rot typically affects plant organs that are fleshy, such as flowers, fruits, and vegetables. Infection thrives under favorable conditions, including moderate temperatures and high humidity, and is most rapid on ripe fruits.123

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plant disease
Symptoms and signs
Soft rot diseases are caused by pathogens that secrete enzymes capable of decomposing cell wall structures, thereby destroying the texture of plant tissue—i.e., the plant tissue becomes macerated (soft and watery). Soft rots commonly occur on fleshy vegetables such as potato, carrot, eggplant, squash, and…
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Soft rot diseases are caused by pathogens that secrete enzymes capable of decomposing cell wall structures, thereby destroying the texture of plant tissue—i.e., the plant tissue becomes macerated (soft and watery). Soft rots commonly occur on fleshy vegetables such as potato, carrot, eggplant, squash, and…
Read More