Plant Diagnosis

Bacterial Wilt Critical

Soil-borne bacterial disease causing rapid wilting in kitchen garden solanaceous crops caused by Ralstonia solanacearum during May-September.

Description

Bacterial wilt affects tomatoes, eggplants, peppers, and potatoes in kitchen gardens. The bacteria enter through wounds in roots and rapidly colonize the vascular system. Infected plants wilt suddenly during hot periods despite adequate soil moisture. A diagnostic test involves placing cut stems in clear water - bacterial streaming will be visible from infected plants.

Symptoms

• Sudden wilting, vascular browning, bacterial streaming, plant death.