# Oleander Root Problems
Oleander (Nerium oleander) is a flowering shrub native to the South African desert. The plant is highly tolerant of heat and drought and grows between 3 and 30 feet depending on variety. Oleander roots are susceptible to bacterial infections.
-
Identification
-
Crown gall is a bacterial root disease caused by Agrobacterium tumefaciens. The bacteria infect plant roots close to the soil line and under the ground surface.
Damage
-
The infection leads to the appearance of galls on the roots. As disease progresses, the galls spread to branches and trunk of plant. Crown gall is most damaging to younger plants and stunts their growth. Infected oleanders are more prone to drought and wind damage. In cases of severe infection, plants are entirely killed.
Management
-
Use resistant plant varieties and obtain plants from reputable sources. Minimize damage to plants at the time of transplanting. In areas of known prior crown gall cases, solarize soil before planting. Solarization involves covering up the soil with a tarp to keep it hot for several weeks, which kills bacteria. Cut away galls from roots and stems and let the tissues dry before covering with soil.
-
