How to Manage Pests

Verticillium wilt on peppers and eggplant—Verticillium dahliae

Wilting of leaves is a common symptom of plants infected with Verticillium wilt. Eventually the margins and tips of leaves become dry and turn brown. The vascular system of the roots, stem, and branches shows light brown discoloration.

Solutions

Verticillium wilt is caused by a soilborne fungus and can survive in the soil indefinitely as microsclerotia that germinate in the vicinity of roots. Verticillium wilt is favored by cool air and soil temperatures. Where Verticillium has been a problem, follow good sanitation practices and avoid ground previously planted with potatoes, tomatoes, or cucurbits. The fungus has an extremely wide host range, including many common weeds. Rotate peppers with nonhosts, such as corn, for a period of 2 years. Using soil solarization before planting may help reduce Verticillium levels in the soil.

Verticillium infected pepper roots