Control Measures of Fusarium Wilt in Chilli

Fusarium wilt is a common and devastating vascular wilt disease caused by various species of the fungus Fusarium oxysporum. It affects hundreds of plant species, including many important food crops like tomatoes, bananas, potatoes, legumes, and melons. Losses due to Fusarium wilt can vary depending on factors like disease severity, chili variety susceptibility, environmental conditions, and management practices. Studies report losses ranging from 10% to 80%, highlighting its potential to cripple chili production. Early infection during seedling or flowering stages can be particularly damaging, resulting in stunted growth, wilting, and reduced fruit set, ultimately leading to lower yields.

Characteristics for Identification of Powdery Mildew:

• Wilting: This is the most prominent symptom, starting with lower leaves and progressing upwards. The wilting may initially occur during hot days and recover at night, but eventually becomes permanent.
• Yellowing and stunting: Affected leaves turn yellow and become stunted, appearing smaller and weaker than healthy ones.
• Vascular discoloration: If you cut open the stem of an infected plant, you'll see brownish or reddish-brown discoloration in the vascular tissues. This is a diagnostic sign of Fusarium wilt.
• Premature leaf drop: As the disease progresses, wilted and yellowed leaves will eventually fall off, leaving the plant bare.
• Reduced fruit set and quality: Infected plants may produce fewer fruits, and those that do develop may be small, discolored, and misshapen.

Classification:

• Type of Infestation: Disease
• Common Name: Fusarium Wilt
• Scientific Name: Fusarium oxysporum f.sp.capsici
• Category of Plant Disease: Fungal Disease
• Mode of spread: soil borne, seed borne, water borne
• Affected parts of plant: Leaves, Stem, Fruit

Favorable factors for disease/Pest Development:

• Warm temperatures: The fungus thrives in temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C (77°F to 95°F). Cooler temperatures below 20°C (68°F) hinder its growth and development.
• Moist soil: Excessive soil moisture or frequent irrigation creates a damp environment conducive to fungal growth and spore germination. Well-drained soils are less favorable.
• High humidity: Humid conditions, especially when combined with warm temperatures, further encourage fungal growth and spore dispersal.
• Poor soil aeration: Compact or compacted soil restricts air circulation around plant roots, creating an anaerobic environment preferred by the fungus.

Control Measures of Fusarium Wilt in Chilli