Eggplant Verticillium wilt is a serious disease that affects crop yields, with an average incidence rate of 40-50% in typical years. In severe cases, the infection can exceed 70%, leading to total crop failure. This issue is especially prevalent in small vegetable gardens, where the disease spreads quickly and becomes difficult to manage. Preventing Verticillium wilt is essential for ensuring a successful eggplant harvest.
The symptoms of the disease typically appear after fruit set. Initially, the lower and middle leaves show yellowing or chlorosis, which gradually progresses upward. Affected plants may exhibit half-yellowing, with some branches and leaves turning yellow and dying. The fruits become soft and unmarketable. In extreme cases, the entire plant wilts, and the leaves dry up, leaving only thin, dry stems. When the roots and stems are peeled, the vascular bundles often turn brown, hence the name "black heart disease."
The occurrence of Verticillium wilt is influenced by several factors, including pathogenic, climatic, and agricultural conditions.
First, the source of the pathogen plays a major role. Verticillium dahliae is a soil-borne fungus that can survive for 6–8 years in the soil, especially in areas with infected residues. It enters the plant through root wounds, as well as through root hairs and the radicle. Continuous cropping or planting near infected crops increases the risk of disease. Small household gardens, which are often planted in close proximity, tend to suffer more severely.
Second, temperature significantly affects the disease's development. Cool temperatures, particularly between 20–25°C, favor the spread of Verticillium wilt. The longer the daily average temperature remains below 15°C during the growing season, the earlier and more severe the outbreak. Conversely, when temperatures rise above 28°C, the disease tends to be suppressed.
Third, improper farming practices contribute to the problem. Heavy clay soils, saline-alkali conditions, excessive nitrogen fertilizer, raw manure application, poor seedling care, and overwatering on cold days can all increase the likelihood of infection. Watering during cold or cloudy weather can trigger an outbreak.
To effectively manage Verticillium wilt, a combination of strategies is necessary. Selecting resistant varieties is the foundation of prevention. Cultivation techniques such as crop rotation, proper fertilization, and careful planting should be prioritized. Additionally, maintaining good water and nutrient management helps reduce disease pressure.
For example, using disease-resistant varieties like Guozhuang Changjiang, which have pointed leaves, notched edges, and dark green or purple coloration, can improve resistance. Crop rotation with non-Solanaceae plants for at least five years is recommended. Applying well-rotted organic manure, along with balanced chemical fertilizers, can help avoid root damage. Proper planting density (60x30 cm) and careful seedling handling—such as avoiding midday sun and ensuring proper soil coverage—are also important.
Water management is critical. During the early growth stages, watering should be minimized, and if needed, it should be done on warm, sunny days. From July to September, regular but light watering keeps the soil moist and prevents cracking. Foliar sprays containing Qiongsu, gibberellin, boron, and urea can enhance plant resistance during flowering.
Chemical control options include applying a mixture of Qiongsu and bactericidal agents to the base of the plants, or spraying a solution of Chinonin and copper sulfate over the entire plant. These treatments should be applied at the first sign of disease, every 5–7 days for 2–3 times. Adding insecticides to the mix can improve effectiveness and also help control other diseases like leaf spot and blight. With timely intervention, the disease can be controlled within 2–3 days, and plants usually recover within 5–6 days.
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