|
Damage Symptoms
Sudden permanent wilt of scattered
plants. Plants are not yellow at first, but may turn yellow after
wilting. White mycelium growth in which sclerotia are produced
develops on the stem at the soil line. Tomato fruit or branches
that touch the soil may also become infected.
Conditions for Development
The fungus has an extremely broad host range; it also persists
on crop residues and as dormant sclerotia. High temperatures
and high soil moisture favor disease development. Wilting may
be more evident when soils begin to dry out.
Control
Allow ample time for breakdown of green manure before planting
crop. Deep plow to bury sclerotia. Soil fungicides such as Terrachlor
F (PCNB) offer some protection. Use raised beds for good soil
drainage and keep the bed surface dry. Efforts are being made
to use solarization and biological control. Grow tomato after
paddy rice or corn. |
|
|
