How do you eliminate Verticillium wilt from soil?

Verticillium wilt management is a multi-faceted endeavor. This soil-borne fungus will endure in the soil as microsclerotia for decades. I have recovered farms with a strict process. Immediate action on infected plants will prevent movement to healthy plants. Waiting too long may mean losing an entire ornamental landscape or a farm full of crops.

Full sun is the best situation for Solarization. I also incorporate 20% biochar amendments to further suppress any spores that survive. Use a thermometer to test the soil weekly. Solarization treatment will not stay intact when you solarize an area only partially. A client of mine had a half-solarized area that reinfected their roses in two growing seasons.

Rotate crops with non-host species, including corn and grasses, for a duration of three or more years, but not two. Avoid nightshades and maples. A vineyard client utilized barley intercropped between rows and had an 80% reduction in infection rates. Monitor soil pH, and keep between 6.2-6.5 pH to keep fungal reduced.

All infected debris must be incinerated - composting is never recommended. I have known microsclerotia to survive municipal composting. Disinfect tools with a 1:9 bleach solution after use on diseased plants. Any new stock must be quarantined for 30 days before being placed into the clean area.

Read the full article: Verticillium Wilt Treatment: Complete Management Guide