Fusarium Fruit Rot of Cucurbit Crops
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Fusarium fruit rot (Fusarium spp.) affects many cucurbits but is particularly devastating to pumpkin. It can occur in the field or in storage after harvest. Infected fruit develop lesions, usually circular, of varying size. The tissue beneath the lesions may be discolored and corky. Fungal growth ranging from white to purple in color may be seen.
Fusarium fruit rot on pumpkin.
(Photo: Julie Beale, University of Kentucky)
Fusarium fruit rot on pumpkin.
(Photo: Timothy Coolong, University of Kentucky)
Management:
- Crop rotation
- Physical barriers (minimizing contact of fruit with soil)
- Proper curing
- Careful handling during harvest
