Symptoms
Stunted growth, yellowing and wilting that does not recover after watering. Roots turn brown and mushy and the outer layer slips off easily, leaving the thread-like core.
Prevention
Plant in well-drained soil or raised beds and never overwater. Use clean media, rotate crops, and avoid moving soil from infected areas.
Treatment
Organic
Drench soil with Trichoderma or Bacillus subtilis biocontrol. Reduce watering, improve drainage and remove severely affected plants.
Chemical (last resort)
Drench with metalaxyl (for Pythium) or carbendazim (for Fusarium) once diagnosed. Correct the drainage problem first or chemicals will not hold — observe PHI.
Affects 3 crops
Sources
MARDI Crop Protection Guide; DOA IPM Manual