A review on tomato Fusarium wilt and integrated approaches for its management

Abstract

Fusarium wilt of tomato ( Solanum lycopersicum L.) is a destructive vascular disease affecting tomatoes, caused by the fungal pathogen Fusarium oxysporum f. sp. lycopersici ( Fol ). It is a soil-borne pathogen that penetrates the host plant and infects the vascular tissues, causing wilting and plant death, resulting in significant yield losses. Despite difficulties in controlling the disease, this review presents an integrated disease management (IDM) framework that adopts a stage-specific and mechanism driven approach targeting critical stages in the Fol disease cycle for sustainable management. Specifically, an integrated approach combining compatible strategies such as regulatory measures, the use of resistant cultivars, crop rotation, soil or planting material heat sterilization, maintenance of proper nutrient balance, application of organic soil amendments, use of botanical extracts, utilization of beneficial or non-pathogenic microorganisms as growth promoters or biological agents, as well as minimal fungicide use, has been reported to be effective in suppressing the disease. Additionally, IDM offers an eco-friendly approach that reduces disease pressure, minimizes yield losses, protects the environment and human health, and decreases dependence on a single technique. Therefore, adoption of IDM strategies is essential in controlling Fusarium wilt for sustainable tomato production. Moreover, challenges in managing Fusarium wilt are discussed, including issues related to climate change, concerns about chemical use, the effectiveness of biological control agents in the field, and breakdowns in host resistance. Consequently, increased efforts by researchers, policymakers, regulatory agencies, and other agricultural stakeholders are needed to overcome these challenges, enhance Fusarium wilt control, and improve food security.