Fusarium Wilt - Ask Extension
Does this tomato plant have Fusarium Wilt? It was purchased at a local nursery this Spring and simply labeled “patio tomato “. The leaf yellowin...
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Fusarium Wilt #913994
Asked August 14, 2025, 11:20 AM EDT
Does this tomato plant have Fusarium Wilt? It was purchased at a local nursery this Spring and simply labeled “patio tomato “. The leaf yellowing started on the left side and has now spread.
My main concern is the soil. Since Fusarium Wilt is a soil-borne disease would the soil be useful for growing anything in the future? We had problems last year growing herbs in the tub so we emptied out the tub this year, used a bleach/water mixture to wash the inside, rinsed thoroughly and replaced the soil with Miracle Grow organic raised bed soil. Any thoughts would be appreciated.
Somerset County Maryland
Expert Response
Hi- this is not a wilt disease. Fusarium wilt causes healthy leaves to wilt due to the fungus's obstruction of the water transport system.
We see some fungal leaf spot symptoms likely caused by Septoria leaf spot and early blight. The leaf yellowing is likely caused by the diseases, both very common in Maryland tomato crops, and environmental stressors like high temperatures and inconsistent soil moisture. We also see some minor insect feeding injury caused possibly by flea beetles and one or more pests that have sucking mouthparts like leafhoppers, whiteflies, or spider mites.
Remove dead leaves and stems. Maintain even moisture through the root system and fertilize as needed.
Key to Common Problems of Tomato
Jon
We see some fungal leaf spot symptoms likely caused by Septoria leaf spot and early blight. The leaf yellowing is likely caused by the diseases, both very common in Maryland tomato crops, and environmental stressors like high temperatures and inconsistent soil moisture. We also see some minor insect feeding injury caused possibly by flea beetles and one or more pests that have sucking mouthparts like leafhoppers, whiteflies, or spider mites.
Remove dead leaves and stems. Maintain even moisture through the root system and fertilize as needed.
Key to Common Problems of Tomato
Jon
