Fusarium wilt, basal rot—Fusarium oxysporum
Fusarium wilt affects mostly herbaceous plants including
aster, carnation, chrysanthemum, dahlia, and freesia. Fusarium
wilt causes foliage to yellow, curve, wilt, then turn brown
and die. Lower
foliage is usually affected first. On many hosts, symptoms
may appear on only one side of the plant. Plants infected
when they are young often die. Cross-sections of basal
stems may reveal brown rings. Masses of spore-bearing
stalks are sometimes visible on dead tissue and may look
like small pink cushions.
Solutions
Control Fusarium wilt through sanitation
and cultural practices. Plant
in raised beds. Solarization can
temporarily reduce Fusarium fungi in the upper few
inches of soil in areas with warm weather. Choose resistant
cultivars if available. Because Fusarium wilt fungi
are host-specific, replant infested planting beds using a
plant from a different genus. Provide proper cultural
care to reduce plant susceptibility to infection and damage. Avoid
overwatering and provide good drainage. Avoid applying
excessive fertilizer.
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Brown vascular discoloration of cut open Freesia bulb
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