Fusarium wilt is a significant and widespread disease affecting melon crops, particularly in protected cultivation environments such as greenhouses. In some regions, it causes severe economic losses due to high infection rates. The disease typically affects 3% to 5% of the crop, but in severe cases, the incidence can exceed 10%, leading to substantial reductions in yield and quality.
Symptoms of Fusarium wilt can appear throughout the entire growth cycle of the plant. During the seedling stage, infected plants show pale yellowing of the leaves, followed by wilting and eventual death. A key sign is the discoloration of the vascular tissue within the stem. As the plant matures, the lower leaves begin to wilt and droop, with brown or necrotic spots appearing along the leaf margins. In advanced stages, the entire plant dies. Infected stems may also develop sunken lesions and necrotic streaks. Under humid conditions, a white to pink mold often appears on the surface of the diseased areas. Over time, the stems rot and disintegrate, with the vascular bundles turning brown.
The spread of this disease is closely linked to environmental and agricultural factors. The pathogen survives in the soil in the form of mycelium and chlamydospores, as well as in infected plant debris and uncomposted organic fertilizers. When conditions are favorable, the pathogen enters through root wounds or directly through the apical meristem cells, initiating infection. Soil temperatures between 15°C and 20°C are ideal for disease development, especially when melon roots are weak and healing is delayed, making them more vulnerable to infection. Continuous planting without crop rotation leads to a buildup of pathogens in the soil. Additionally, acidic soils, heavy clay textures, waterlogged fields, excessive use of unfermented manure, and damage from underground pests all contribute to increased disease occurrence. Proactive management strategies, including proper soil preparation, crop rotation, and the use of resistant varieties, are essential in controlling Fusarium wilt.
Laboratory Diagnostic,Reagent Strips For Urinalysis,Assay Kits,LETIA Assay Kit,Urinalysis Assay Kits
Jilin Sinoscience Technology Co. LTD , https://www.jlgkscience.com