Kutsaga Research has issued a warning to tobacco farmers about the threat posed by Fusarium wilt and root rot disease (FWRR), a soil-borne fungal infection that can result in significant crop yield losses.
The institute’s surveillance has indicated a worrying rise in the occurrence of FWRR, a disease that globally leads to about 20% yield loss in affected crops.
While previous outbreaks in Zimbabwe were sporadic and resulted in minor yield reductions, the current situation is more concerning.
FWRR is caused by ascomycetous fungi from the Fusarium genus, with at least seven of the 18 identified species reported to infect tobacco plants in Zimbabwe.
A recent study revealed that the highly virulent Fusarium falciforme, a species known for its widespread impact, is now prevalent in Zimbabwe’s tobacco and potato crops.
Symptoms of the disease include yellowing, wilting, and eventual death of leaves; stunting of plant growth; defoliation; and complete plant death.
In some cases, symptoms appear on only one side of the plant or along the mid-vein of leaves.
ALSO READ: Department of Correctional Services Eyes Bail Fund for Minor Offenders
A telltale sign of the disease is the discolouration of vascular tissues in the stem, taproot, and lateral roots, which eventually becomes visible on the plant’s outer surface.
Kutsaga advises farmers to maintain proper sanitation practices, avoiding the retention of infected stalks from previous seasons and preventing the movement of contaminated soil or water.
The disease thrives in warm, humid environments, particularly in sandy-loam soils, and is exacerbated by tobacco monocropping.
To manage FWRR, farmers should adopt an integrated approach, including crop rotation, chemical controls, and pest management, along with improving overall sanitation practices.
Kutsaga also announced ongoing research into effective fungicides and the development of tobacco varieties resistant to FWRR and other diseases like black shank.
The government’s 2021 tobacco value chain transformation plan (TVCTP) aims to boost tobacco production and enhance the industry’s contribution to Zimbabwe’s GDP, foreign currency earnings, and job creation, ultimately working towards a prosperous and empowered society by 2030.
