Sugarcane Red Rot
A serious sugarcane disease associated with red discoloration inside affected stalks and characteristic external symptoms.
Symptoms
Cut stalks may show reddish internal tissue, sometimes with pale areas or darker margins. Leaves may yellow or dry as disease progresses.
Field investigation
Inspect several stalks from affected patches and compare with healthy plants. Record variety, ratoon history and field pattern.
Management
Use clean planting material, resistant/tolerant varieties where recommended, remove severely affected material and follow local disease-management guidance.
Confirmation
Laboratory or specialist examination can be used where the diagnosis is uncertain.