Symptoms and recognition (Phytophthora)

Phytophthora rot appears in the orchard and in store and symptoms are similar.  Symptoms vary according to the variety.  The rot is usually firm and the skin easily peeled away.

  • Cox – A firm rot ranging in colour from pale green to mid-brown often with a marbled appearance.
  • Bramley, Gala, Jonagold and Egremont RussetPhytophthora rot usually appears as a firm, dark brown rot.  Very occasionally, rots may be pale green.  On Bramley the rotting is often blotchy.
  • Cox and Gala – The rot may also appear as a small brown/grey firm cheek rot, which, if the fruit is cut, is associated with extensive internal rotting.  Such symptoms are usually found in fruit which have been treated post-harvest.
  • A vinegary aroma is often associated with Phytophthora rot.
  • The rot spreads in store by contact and so nests of rot may be present in late stored fruit.