Q&A - My penstemon & coneflower have a stringy substance on roots

Question:
I planted a red penstemon & a green jewel coneflower plant this year. Both plants were growing great until recently. I dug up the plants & found a white stringy looking substance on the roots. I have transplanted them to pots to try & save them. Can you tell me what happened?

Answer:
The white stringy substance on the roots sounds like a root blight. It is possible that it is not thought. Often if there is decaying organic matter in the soil a fungus will feed on that organic material and create those strings. The fungus does not harm the plant. It could also be watering problem. Now that the plants have been transplanted to pots cut them back somewhat because the roots have been damaged, then see if they come back. If it was a soil bight there are drenches but they are not homeowner friendly.

Related Resources:
Penstemon: A colorful choice for water wise gardening
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