What happens to young seedlings that are infected after they emerge?

When young seedlings become infected after they emerge, they often exhibit severe negative effects on their growth and vitality. One of the most common outcomes is that they shrivel and collapse at the ground line. This occurs because the infection can disrupt the normal physiological processes of the seedlings, such as nutrient uptake and water regulation.

Specifically, pathogens may invade the root system or areas just above the soil line, leading to the rotting of tissues. This damage compromises the structural integrity of the seedling and can result in wilting or complete collapse. The condition makes it difficult, if not impossible, for the plant to recover, leading to stunted growth or death. In contrast, healthy seedlings would continue to grow and establish normally, and other options presented do not reflect the typical response of seedlings to such infections.