Fusarium wilt is a plant disease caused by various species of the fungus Fusarium. potentially leading to yield losses of up to 80%. The Fusarium fungus enters the plant through wounds, natural openings, or root tips. It is also transmitted through infected seeds. Soilborne Fusarium spores can also penetrate the roots directly, particularly in susceptible plant species The fungus invades the plant's root system, colonizing and plugging the xylem vessels, which are responsible for transporting water and nutrients throughout the plant. Causing wilting and death of plants at various growth stages.
Classification:
- Type of Infestation: Disease
- Common Name: Fusarium wilt
- Scientific Name: Fusarium oxysporum
- Category of Plant Disease: Fungal Disease
- Mode of spread: wounds, natural openings, or root tips, Infected Seeds
- Affected parts of plant: Roots, Stems, Vascular Tissues, Leaves
Favorable factors for disease/Pest Development:
- Warm temperatures: Most Fusarium wilt pathogens thrive in temperatures between 20°C and 30°C, making warm climates particularly conducive to disease development.
- Moderate soil moisture: While excessive moisture can favor other soilborne diseases, moderately moist soil provides ideal conditions for fungal growth and spore germination.
- Soil pH: Slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5) tends to favor Fusarium wilt compared to neutral or slightly alkaline soils.
Symptoms of Fusarium Wilt in Cumin:
Wilting of Plants:
- The most common symptom is the sudden wilting of plants during warm conditions.
Yellowing of Leaves:
- Lower leaves turn yellow, followed by the entire plant.
Brown Discoloration in Vascular Tissues:
- When the stem is split, brown streaks can be observed in the vascular tissues.
Stunted Growth:
- Affected plants show poor growth and reduced vigor.
Control measures for Fusarium Wilt Disease in Cumin:
Biological Control
- Katyayani Tyson (Trichoderma Viride 1% WP) - Dose: 1 - 2 kg / Acre
Chemical Control
- Katyayani COC50 (Copper oxychloride 50% WP) - Dose: 500 gm / Acre
- Katyayani Samartha (Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63%) -Dose: 500 gm / acre
- Katyayani KTM (Thiophanate Methyl 70% wp) - Dose: 500 gm / acre
| Product | Technical Name | Dosage |
|---|---|---|
| Tyson | Trichoderma Viride 1% WP | 1 - 2 kg/Acre |
| COC50 | Copper Oxychloride 50% WP | 500 gm/Acre |
| Samartha | Carbendazim 12% + Mancozeb 63% | 500 gm/Acre |
| KTM | Thiophanate Methyl 70% WP | 500 gm/Acre |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What is Fusarium Wilt?
A. Fusarium wilt is a fungal disease that affects the roots and vascular tissues of plants, leading to wilting and plant death.
Q. How does this disease spread?
A. The disease spreads through wounds, natural openings, root tips, and infected seeds.
Q. What are the symptoms of Fusarium Wilt?
A. Symptoms include wilting of plants, yellowing of leaves, brown streaks in vascular tissues, and stunted growth.
Q. Under what conditions does this disease thrive?
A. It thrives in warm temperatures (20°C-30°C), moderately moist soil, and slightly acidic soil (pH 5.5-6.5).
Q. What are the biological control measures for this disease?
A. Using Trichoderma Viride (Katyayani Tyson 1% WP) at 1-2 kg per acre can help manage this disease.
Q. Which chemical products are effective for control?
A. Effective products include Katyayani COC50, Katyayani Samartha, and Katyayani KTM.
For more information about pests and diseases, read our other blogs.
