Clubroot
Clubroot is a soil-borne disease caused by the pathogen Plasmodiophora brassicae, which primarily affects plants in the Brassicaceae family, including cabbage, broccoli, and cauliflower. The disease leads to the formation of galls or swellings on the roots, which disrupts the plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients, ultimately stunting growth and reducing yields.
Infected plants often exhibit yellowing leaves and wilting, especially during dry conditions. Clubroot can persist in the soil for many years, making it challenging to manage. Effective control measures include crop rotation, using resistant varieties, and maintaining soil health to reduce the pathogen's presence.