Fusarium wilt, caused by Fusarium udum f. sp. cajani, is a serious disease that affects redgram, characterized by yellowing, wilting, and drying of the plant. The disease primarily occurs during the flowering or pod formation stage and is more prominent in soils with specific temperature and moisture conditions.

Symptoms

• Yellowing and Wilting: The affected plants first show yellowing, followed by wilting and eventual drying.
• Xylem Browning: The disease is confirmed by browning of the xylem vessels.
• Partial vs. Total Wilting: Partial wilting is linked to lateral root infections, while taproot infections lead to complete wilting.

Environmental Conditions

• Soil Temperature: Most virulent at 20-25°C .
• Survival: The pathogen survives in the soil for up to 3 years, primarily through crop residues.

Disease Spread
Fusarium wilt spreads through root contact, injury by nematodes and termites, and via irrigation or flooding during rains. Early detection and crop rotation are key for managing the disease.