Phytopthora, meaning "Plant Killer" is one of the most destructive diseases of woody plants in the southeast. In particular phytophthora root rot kills many plants such as oaks, maples, rhododendron, azaleas and many other trees and shrubs. Symptoms of phytophthora include yellowing of the leaves, leaf shed, slow growth, and limb dieback, The best control for this disease is planting a resistant cultivar. Some chemical control has proved to work but once most of the symptoms have occurred the damage is already done. Preventive maintenance is the best way to go on this. Avoid poor drainage situations with plantings and over watering.