Biology
Verticillium wilt is caused by a fungus commonly found in the soil. Many species of plants are affected by Verticillium, but tomato and potato are favored hosts. Typically, the fungus attacks the roots and moves throughout the plant via the vascular system. Infected plants may wilt, sometimes along only one side. Other symptoms include premature yellowing and death of plants beginning at the base and progressing upward ("early maturity"). Discoloration of the vascular tissues is noticeable when cuts are made into the stem. Some tubers from infected plants may show a light brown discoloration in the vascular tissues. When tubers are cut across the stem end, this discoloration shows as a discontinuous ring of brown about 1/4"-1/2" beneath the skin.
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