Groups of seedlings may die in roughly circular patches, the seedlings sometimes having stem lesions at ground level. Stems of seedlings may also become thin and tough ("wire-stem") resulting in reduced seedling vigor. Leaf spotting sometimes accompanies other symptoms, as does a grey mold growth on stems and leaves. Roots sometimes rot completely or back to just discolored stumps.
The disease is particularly prevalent along rows beneath the roof gutters, where high humidity and free water on the plants are more likely to occur The bacterium may be present in the soil and can be splashed onto deleafing wounds by drips from the roof; it can also be carried in irrigation water from wells and outside reservoirs. The bacterium spreads by contact with contaminated hands and tools.
