DISEASE ID · BACTERIAL DISEASE
Crown gall
Also called Crown gall on rose, plant tumors, galls on roots
A bacterial disease that grows rough, woody lumps on stems and roots. A gall that wraps the base of the plant can kill it.
How to spot it
- Small, round lumps on stems and roots at first
- Lumps turn woody, rough, and irregular as they grow
- Anywhere from pea-sized to over a foot across
- Found on lower stems and roots, near the soil line
- Stunted, unhealthy-looking plant
Why it shows up
The bacteria get in through wounds, from transplanting, wind damage, insect injury, or a bump from the mower. Once inside, they turn normal plant cells into tumor cells. Infected plants from a nursery can bring it home with them.
How we treat it
There is no quick fix. We will identify it on a visit and recommend the next step. A badly galled plant usually has to come out, and we will talk through options with you.
What you can do
- Check new plants before you buy. Skip any with lumps on the stems or roots.
- Watch the mower and string trimmer around the base of plants.
- Clean your pruning tools between plants.
WANT IT HANDLED?
Let a licensed applicator take it from here.
Tell us about your lawn. We’ll get back to you with a free quote.
Prefer to talk? 817-382-1722Licensed applicator, Texas Department of Agriculture · License #0984138