Fusarium wilt can destroy susceptible cultivars of cabbage; cauliflower, broccoli, and brussels sprouts are not known to be affected. Symptoms consist of the yellowing of the lower leaves, often on one side of the plant. These leaves later turn brown and drop off. A brown discoloration of the water-conducting tissues is characteristic of this disease. With time, the entire plant may yellow, wilt, and collapse.
Solutions
Once present, this fungus survives indefinitely in the soil. Avoid introducing the pathogen to clean fields. In areas where the fungus is known to occur, plant cabbage in spring or winter, as this fungus develops most rapidly at temperatures ranging from 75 to 85°F. Some resistant cabbage cultivars are available.
