Wilt of Strawberries and Tomatoes
Verticillium dahliae

Description:

A soil borne fungus that

When spit the stems show dark brown to black vascular staining but otherwise appear normal.

Tomato.

Lower leaves wilt and desiccate first and eventually the whole plant may die.

Chrysanthemum.

The leaves on lower branches turn pinkish or purple the wither.

Apricot.

When trees are in close contact with Tomatoes or Potatoes they may be affected and leaves on the ends of branches turn yellow, wilt and fall. Fruit develops "black heart".

Species Affected:

Brambles, Chrysanthemum, Dahlias, Eggplant, Nightshades, Noogoora Burr, Potato, Strawberry, Tomato are very susceptible.

Some fruit trees such as Apricot.

Biology:

Invades the root and infects the vascular tissue.

The fungus may remain in the soil for many years.

Spread on implements and by soil movement and soil erosion.

Life Cycle:

Origin and History:

Distribution:

Significance:

Management and Control:

Plant resistant varieties.

Remove and destroy infected plants.

Improve drainage.

Rotate crops.

Control alternate hosts such Nightshades.

Soil usually needs fumigation if infected.

Strawberries

Plant runners that are certified as disease free.

Fumigate affected areas before replanting.

Tomatoes

Plant healthy seedlings.

Use resistant varieties such as FA16, Floradale, Hybrid Surprise, Tropic, UC134, Walter.

Fumigate seed beds.

Don't plant area for at least 4 years after the last susceptible crop.

Related and Similar Species:

References:

1205

Acknowledgments:

Collated by HerbiGuide. Phone 08 98444064 for more information.