The Increasing Distribution and Incidence of Fusarium Wilt of Cotton in Australia

The results of annual disease surveys and the submission of samples to the free Fusarium diagnostic service indicate that Fusarium wilt of cotton is not spreading as fast as it was when first reported. The use of more resistant varieties, unfavourable seasonal conditions and improved farm hygiene may be contributing to this slower rate of distribution.

The increasing incidence of Fusarium wilt has been monitored annually in five commercial cotton fields. The impact of various farming practices and the influence of seasonal weather conditions on disease incidence is apparent.