The part of a plant that can be infected by a pathogen depends on the type of pathogen involved (bacterial, viral, fungal, etc.) and the specific plant species. However, common parts of a plant that are susceptible to infections include:
- Leaves: Many pathogens infect leaves, leading to symptoms like spots, blights, or discoloration.
- Stems: Stems can be invaded by fungi or bacteria, causing cankers, rots, or discoloration.
- Roots: Root pathogens can cause root rot, wilt, and other diseases, affecting nutrient and water uptake.
- Flowers: Some pathogens can infect flowers, leading to wilting, discoloration, or deformities.
- Fruits: Fruits can be affected by pathogens, causing rotting, discoloration, and affecting overall yield.
Effective disease management often includes monitoring these plant parts for signs of infection and implementing appropriate control measures.