fusarium wilt issue - Ask Extension
I have been battling this issue for a number of years. I believe its fusarium wilt or crown and root rot. It has the rust colored ring in the plant s...
Knowledgebase
fusarium wilt issue #924983
Asked February 24, 2026, 11:22 AM EST
I have been battling this issue for a number of years. I believe its fusarium wilt or crown and root rot. It has the rust colored ring in the plant stem of tomatoes. It is also effecting squash, cukes and peppers. I tried solarization and no planting for a year. I am to the point of now building raised planter boxes. My question is what do I place at the bottom of the planter box that is going to be in contact with this soil. Do I use plastic with a drainage system or can I use landscape fabric? Thank you
Benton County Minnesota
Expert Response
Fusarium wilt or collar rot are caused by fungus. Cultural control involves removing all infected plant material from the area and dispose of in trash rather than composting. Plant rotation is a must with 4-5 years between planting the same vegetable class in the same area. Lastly , plant varieties that are fungus resistant (labeled VFN or F). If you want to positively identify the fungus that is present you can send your plant sample in to the UMN plant diagnostic clinic. Information on fusarium wilt is in the link below.
if you are building raised beds and adding new soil it is solarization is recommended for 4-6 weeks prior. Any barriers should allow water flow - cardboard or landscape fabric are options. New soil should be at least 18” deep.
https://extension.umn.edu/disease-management/fusarium-wilt
if you are building raised beds and adding new soil it is solarization is recommended for 4-6 weeks prior. Any barriers should allow water flow - cardboard or landscape fabric are options. New soil should be at least 18” deep.
https://extension.umn.edu/disease-management/fusarium-wilt
