Severe Root Rot on Hydroponically-Grown Lettuce Caused by Phytophthora drechsleri

Phytophthora root rot of lettuce, which has not been reported in Korea before, occurred severely in liquid hydroponic culture. The disease occurred in all seasons and was most severe in summer from June to August, showing over 90% infection rate in some farms. A total of 51 isolates collected from various farms were all identified as Phytophthora drechsleri. The fungus showed strong pathogenicity to lettuce and Chinese cabbage, moderate pathogenicity to cucurbits and tomato, and weak pathogenicity to pepper. However, the fungus was not pathogenic to other leafy vegetables namely: chicory, kale, endive, garland chrysanthemum, spinach beet, and perilla. Among 10 species of Phytophtora inoculated to lettuce, only P. drechsleri and P. cryptogea were found pathogenic.