What symptoms can be caused by root rot and root parasitic nematodes?

Root rot and root parasitic nematodes can have a significant negative impact on plant health, leading to several specific symptoms. One of the primary effects of root rot is that it impedes the plant's ability to absorb water and essential nutrients from the soil. As a result, affected plants often exhibit stunted growth because the compromised root system cannot support the normal developmental processes of the plant.

Additionally, small leaves can be a manifestation of overall reduced vigor due to insufficient nutrient availability. When a plant cannot uptake nutrients effectively because of damaged roots or root disruption caused by nematodes, it may also display signs of nutritional deficiencies, which further contribute to poor growth quality and health.

The other symptoms listed—larger leaves and healthier growth, rapid flowering and fruiting, and improved root structure—are generally indicative of healthy plants rather than those affected by root rot or nematodes. Healthy plants typically exhibit vigorous growth and robust root systems, which starkly contrasts with the symptoms caused by root health issues. Therefore, the symptoms associated with root rot and root parasitic nematodes are accurately reflected in the observation of stunted growth, small leaves, and signs of nutritional deficiencies.