Verticillium Wilt
Verticillium dahliae, Verticillium albo-atrum
Overview
A widespread soil-borne fungal disease affecting hundreds of plant species. The fungus invades the vascular system through roots, causing progressive wilting, yellowing, and death. Microsclerotia persist in soil for years.
Symptoms
Wilting of leaves and branches, often on one side of the plant initially. Yellowing (chlorosis) between leaf veins. Brown streaking of vascular tissue in stems and roots. Marginal leaf scorch. Gradual decline and death.
Environmental Conditions
Cool
Prevention
Plant resistant varieties. Avoid planting susceptible crops in infested soil. Rotate with non-host crops (grasses, corn). Solarize soil. Maintain plant vigor with proper nutrition.
Management
No chemical cure available. Remove and destroy infected plants. Prune out affected branches on trees. Improve soil drainage. Add compost to promote beneficial soil microbes. Avoid excess nitrogen.