Parsnips

Root and Leaf Problems

Root cankers or silver-colored leaf spots


Cause

Both root cankers and leaf spots are caused by the same fungus, Itersonilia perplexans. Leaf spots appear as small, and silver colored areas which expand to irregular shaped areas with indistinct borders. Over time these spots turn brown. Root cankers usually occur near the top of the root. Infected areas initially turn brown or reddish brown, then turn black and become sunken over time.

Treatment

Avoid cool, wet storage conditions. Also remove all roots and crop residue from fields after harvest.