Verticillium Wilt

by Elizabeth H. Roche, Nancy J. Taylor & Francesca Peduto Hand


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Summary

Verticillium Wilt is a vascular disease caused by two closely related species of the soilborne fungus Verticillium (i.e. Verticillium albo-atrum and Verticillium dahliae). The pathogen attacks a wide variety of herbaceous and woody ornamentals infecting the plant through the roots and then clogging the water conducting tissues. The fungus can persist in the soil for many years and if not properly managed, can potentially cause problems every season. Flower crops that are particularly susceptible to the disease include chrysanthemum, dahlia, geranium, gerbera, marigold, peony, snapdragon and stock, among others.