The bacterium, Ralstonia (Pseudomonas) solanacearum
Hosts
Tomato, tobacco, and potato
Symptoms
Rapid wilting and death of plants without yellowing or spotting of leaves. Brown discoloration
and decay are evident inside the stems of infected plants. The disease is easily diagnosed
by suspending a clean, cut section of diseased stem in clear water. A white milky
stream of bacterial cells and slime flow from infected stems into the water after
a few minutes.
Control
Control of bacterial wilt in infested soils is difficult. Therefore, avoid using diseased
transplants and establish plantings in non-infested soil. Soil fumigation may provide
partial control, cut does not completely eliminate bacteria from the soil. When infected
plants are identified, remove and destroy them immediately. Please contact your local
county extension office for current information.