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Concept
Physiological plant disorder
Summary
Physiological plant disorders are caused by non-pathological conditions such as poor light, adverse weather, water-logging, phytotoxic compounds or a lack of nutrients, and affect the functioning of the plant system. Physiological disorders are distinguished from plant diseases caused by pathogens, such as a virus or fungus. While the symptoms of physiological disorders may appear disease-like, they can usually be prevented by altering environmental conditions. However, once a plant shows symptoms of a physiological disorder, it is likely that that season's growth or yield will be reduced.
Diagnosis of the cause of a physiological disorder (or disease) can be difficult, but there are many web-based guides that may assist with this. Examples are: Abiotic plant disorders: Symptoms, signs and solutions; Georgia Corn Diagnostic Guide; Diagnosing Plant Problems (Kentucky); and Diagnosing Plant Problems (Virginia).
Some general tips to diagnosing plant disorders:
Examine where symptoms first appear on a plant—on new leaves, old leaves or all over?
Note the pattern of any discolouration or yellowing—is it all over, between the veins or around the edges? If only the veins are yellow, deficiency is probably not involved.
Note general patterns rather than looking at individual plants—are the symptoms distributed throughout a group of plants of the same type growing together? In the case of a deficiency all of the plants should be similarly effected, although distribution will depend on past treatments applied to the soil.
Soil analysis, such as determining pH, can help to confirm the presence of physiological disorders.
Considering recent conditions, such as heavy rains, dry spells, frosts, etc., may also help to determine the cause of plant disorders.
Frost and cold are major causes of crop damage to tender plants, although hardy plants can also suffer if new growth is exposed to a hard frost following a period of warm weather. Symptoms will often appear overnight, affecting many types of plants.
Official source
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