DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS
Verticillium wilt affects several different types of trees and shrubs. This fungus can remain dormant in soil for many years. When roots of susceptible plants grow near, the fungus infects the roots and grows upward into the water-transporting system of the plant, blocking the movement of water.

Symptoms can range from yellowing of the foliage, leaf scorch and sparseness of foliage, to rapid wilting, dying of leaves and branches. Symptoms can occur on one branch or section of plant only, or the entire plant can die, especially during periods of hot, dry weather.
Internal symptoms of the disease are streaks or bands of dark sapwood underneath the bark. This can be seen by cutting diagonally across the base of an infected branch.

PREVENTION AND CONTROL
Plants that quickly wilt and dry throughout cannot be saved. Affected single branches can be removed. This may, but not always, be enough to halt the spread of the disease. Keep affected plants adequately watered, and fertilize with a balanced fertilizer. Certain trees and shrubs are more resistant to verticillium wilt. Turn this page over to see the list.
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