Fusarium wilt

Common Name

Fusarium oxysporum

Scientific Name

Issue

Disease

Causes

The fungus is both seed-borne and soil-borne. It may become established in many types of soil, but it is likely to cause most damage on light, sandy soils. It is most active at temperatures between 25 and 32deg C. Since the fungus produces resting spores

Prevention

Long crop rotation (4 to 6 years) is necessary, and use certified, disease-free seeds Avoid using any solanaceous crop (potato, tomato, pepper, eggplant) or other host plants in the rotation. Rotate with cereals and grasses wherever possible. Use resista

Control

Raise soil pH by applying lime or farmyard manure where soil is acidic. Do not use chicken manure, which is very acidic.