Chrysanthemum Verticillium Wilt: Learn About Mum Verticillium Control

Each fall, chrysanthemum plants are commonplace. Sold in front of grocery stores and home garden centers, their vibrant pop of color is a welcome addition to porch decorations as the weather begins to cool. While purchasing the plants is a foolproof way to ensure blooms, many gardeners prefer to propagate their own chrysanthemums from cuttings. Growing from cuttings allows for greater variety and selection.

Although the process of growing these flowers is relatively simple, there are some issues that may cause failure at bloom time, like chrysanthemum verticillium disease.

Verticillium of Chrysanthemums

While many plant issues and diseases show distinctive signs and symptoms early in the growing season, others do not. Chrysanthemum verticillium wilt is one of these and is caused by certain types of verticillium fungus.

Mums with verticillium wilt are unique in that the presence of infection may go undetected by growers throughout the vast majority of the growing season. Early growth of the plant is likely to appear normal. It is not until the plants have developed and started to form flower buds that they may become distressed.

Among the first signs of chrysanthemum verticillium disease is the sudden wilting of plants. This is especially noticeable on days that are warm and sunny. In addition to wilt, the leaves of the plant may suddenly become yellow.

As the disease progresses, the yellowed leaves will begin to dry and fall from the plant. In severe infections, the plant may completely lose its foliage. Often, this will result in the complete loss of the plant or in greatly diminished flowers.

Chrysanthemum Verticillium Wilt Control

When planting a mum, verticillium control and prevention is of great importance. Verticillium of chrysanthemums can be prevented by choosing chrysanthemum varieties that have demonstrated resistance to the fungus. If this is not possible, growers can reduce the likelihood of infection by purchasing plant cuttings from reliable and reputable sources.

Proper garden maintenance is another key to maintaining healthy chrysanthemum plants. When planting, always maintain a schedule of flower bed rotation. This will help to reduce the occurrence of overwintering the disease in the soil. Make certain to promptly remove and discard any diseased plant matter from garden as well to help prevent spread.