Fusarium Wilt and Root Rot of Houseplants

Fusarium oxysporum

medium

Houseplants (general)fungal

A soilborne fungus causing wilting and root/crown rot, often introduced on contaminated potting mix or infected divisions.

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Symptoms

One-sided or progressive wilting despite adequate watering, yellowing lower leaves, and brown-to-pink discoloration inside the stem or rhizome when cut.

Cause & development

Documented forms attack Snake Plant (Sansevieria) and Parlor Palm specifically, in addition to a broad general host range. EPPO code FUSAOX.

Favorable conditions

•Contaminated potting mix or unsterilized tools
•Plant stress from overwatering or root damage
•Warm growing conditions

Management

1Remove and discard severely affected plants
2Use fresh, sterile potting mix for replacements
3Sanitize tools between plants
4Avoid overwatering and root disturbance

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