Wilting is the generalised loss of turgidity and drooping of leaves or shoots. Wilting can appear due to many different reasons, sometimes abiotic, such as insufficient water, and sometimes biotic, being the symptom of a pathogen attacking the plants and disrupting their vascular system.
There are many different species and strains of fungi and bacteria that can cause melon plants to wilt and in this fact sheet, we will discuss the symptoms, sources and management options for dealing with them.
Also included are the FAQs:
- What is the efficacy of chemicals and biologicals in controlling Fusarium? Will increasing soil carbon help?
- How transferable are the findings to other cucurbit crops?
- Susceptibility to formae speciales – what are known resistant varieties?
- Can Fusarium be spread or favoured by irrigation or floodwater?
- Can Fusarium still infect grafted plants?
- Is it possible to test soil for Fusarium levels and use prediction modelling to classify risk in the paddocks?
