Ten facts about Fusarium

Fusarium is a soil-borne fungus that manifests in many different ways. The symptoms of the disease caused by this fungus, which causes the disease Fusarium wilt, vary widely and are not always easy to recognize. We have compiled a list of ten facts about Fusarium that are important to know.

1. There are many different species and varieties of Fusarium that affect a wide variety of crops.
2. If a crop is weak, damaged, or under stress this increases its risk of being infected by Fusarium.
3. Infection by Fusarium results in wilting and rotting areas that you can see at the base of the plant, the stem, or on the fruit.
4. The most common type, Fusarium oxysporum, comprises many different species, varieties, and forms which all specialize in one or just a few crops. This species of Fusarium grows inside the plant vessels resulting in the wilting that is characteristic of this infection.
5. This fungus is incredibly hardy and can survive in the soil, on crop remnants, on machines and tools, and in parts of the greenhouse structure. Even seeds can already be infected with this harmful fungus.
6. Fusarium can produce toxic substances, called mycotoxins. This is especially harmful for food crops, as these may contain only very low concentrations of these substances.
7. Once the plant has been infected with Fusarium, it is very difficult to treat.
8. It is therefore essential to try everything possible to prevent infection in the first place. Use resistant varieties, ensure good hygiene, and disinfect everything that comes into contact with the crop.
9. Chemical control is possible, depending on the applicable national regulations. However, Fusarium is quick to develop resistance.
10. The beneficial soil-borne fungus Trichoderma harzianum T-22, sold as the product Trianum, can help prevent infection and combat the pathogen.