👉 Shoot-infection, also known as vascular shoot infection, is a severe and often fatal condition primarily affecting plants, particularly those with vascular systems like trees, shrubs, and some crops. It occurs when pathogens, usually fungi or bacteria, enter through wounds or natural openings in the plant's vascular tissue, such as stomata (tiny pores) or lenticels (small holes). Once inside, these microorganisms can rapidly multiply and spread through the xylem, disrupting water and nutrient transport. This disruption leads to symptoms like wilting, yellowing leaves, and eventually, plant death if left untreated. Shoot-infection is particularly dangerous because it can quickly propagate throughout the plant's vascular system, making containment and treatment challenging. Preventive measures include maintaining plant health through proper care, avoiding stress, and using resistant varieties, while treatments often involve fungicides or other antimicrobial agents to control the infection.
