Cauliflower

Visual Description:

The white curd (head) develops brown to tan discoloration, often with a rough or granular texture. The discoloration typically starts on the upper surface exposed to sun and can affect individual florets or larger areas. Affected areas may become slightly sunken and develop an off-flavor. In severe cases, the entire head may become brown and unmarketable.

Visual Description:

Plants form very small heads (2-3 inches) prematurely, often with rough or irregular surfaces. The heads may be loosely formed or have a rice-like appearance instead of the typical smooth, dense curd. Button heads often develop before plants have produced enough leaves to support normal head development. Once buttoning occurs, plants will not produce larger heads.

Visual Description:

Disease begins as yellowing along leaf edges that progresses into a V-shaped lesion with black veins. Affected leaves may wilt and drop. The bacteria can move into the head, causing dark discoloration of the vascular tissue and rot. A distinctive foul odor often accompanies advanced infections. In severe cases, the entire plant may collapse.

Visual Description:

Roots develop large, irregular swellings or clubs that can be several inches in diameter. Above ground, plants show stunting, wilting (especially in warm weather), and yellowing of leaves. The swollen roots are often soft and spongy, and may decay as the season progresses. Infected plants produce small, poor-quality heads or fail to head at all.

Visual Description:

The stem becomes hollow, often with brown discoloration of the internal tissue. The hollow area may extend into the head, causing brownish areas in the stem portion of the curd. In severe cases, the stem may crack or become deformed. The hollow areas can provide entry points for decay organisms, leading to secondary rot.

Visual Description:

Leaves become narrow and strap-like, often with twisted or distorted growth. The leaf blade may be poorly developed, leaving mainly the midrib. Plants are stunted and may fail to form heads. In less severe cases, heads are small and of poor quality. The condition is most common in acidic soils where molybdenum is less available.