Verticillium wilt becomes evident when lower leaves turn yellow and wither. Symptoms progress upward until twigs and branches wilt and die. Leaves may drop, causing trees to appear bare. Vascular tissue of twigs and branches becomes a light brown. Fruit may be small.
Solutions
Verticillium wilt is caused by a soilborne fungus. Avoid planting where susceptible crops, such as tomatoes, potatoes, peppers, eggplant, or cucurbits, have been before. Follow good sanitation and cultural practices to minimize problems. Prune out dead branches and destroy. Avoid excess pruning and the use of excess water or fertilizers, which may promote extra growth, making the plant more susceptible to disease.
