Verticillium Wilt
HIGHVerticillium dahliae / V. albo-atrum
Overview
A soilborne fungal disease that affects hundreds of plant species including maples, elms, redbuds, and many other trees. The fungus invades through roots and colonizes the vascular system, blocking water transport. Symptoms often appear suddenly on individual branches. Maples are particularly susceptible. Olive-green to brown streaking in the sapwood is diagnostic.
- Type
- Fungus
- Severity
- HIGH
- Source
- University of Minnesota Extension
Symptoms
Sudden wilting and dieback of individual branches or one side of tree, leaves may turn yellow then brown and curl, olive-green to dark brown streaking visible in sapwood when bark is peeled or branch is cut cross-section, symptoms may appear on scattered branches, entire tree may decline over one to several seasons
Affected Species
Geographic Spread
Treatments
Pruning and Fertilization
Prune dead branches and fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer to promote new growth and help the tree wall off infected vascular tissue. Some trees can recover if the infection is limited.
Soil Solarization and Resistant Species
For replanting, solarize soil or choose verticillium-resistant species. Avoid planting susceptible species in soil where verticillium-killed trees grew. Conifers, oaks, and willows are generally resistant.
Recommended Products & Tools
Helpful supplies for managing Verticillium Wilt. Always read and follow label directions, and confirm a diagnosis before treating.
Broad-spectrum protectant for many fungal leaf and bark diseases.
Preventive spray for needle cast, leaf spots, and blights.
Sharp, clean cuts to remove affected wood — a tree-care essential.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is Verticillium Wilt?
A soilborne fungal disease that affects hundreds of plant species including maples, elms, redbuds, and many other trees. The fungus invades through roots and colonizes the vascular system, blocking water transport. Symptoms often appear suddenly on individual branches. Maples are particularly susceptible. Olive-green to brown streaking in the sapwood is diagnostic.
What are the symptoms of Verticillium Wilt?
Sudden wilting and dieback of individual branches or one side of tree, leaves may turn yellow then brown and curl, olive-green to dark brown streaking visible in sapwood when bark is peeled or branch is cut cross-section, symptoms may appear on scattered branches, entire tree may decline over one to several seasons
Where is Verticillium Wilt currently found?
Verticillium Wilt is currently active in California, Colorado, Connecticut, Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Maryland, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, North Carolina, Nebraska, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, Vermont, Washington, Wisconsin, West Virginia. It has been reported in 27 total states across the United States.
What plants are affected by Verticillium Wilt?
Verticillium Wilt affects Tulip Poplar, Sugar Maple, Red Maple, Japanese Maple, Eastern Redbud, American Elm. Susceptibility varies by species.
How do I treat Verticillium Wilt?
Treatment options for Verticillium Wilt include: Pruning and Fertilization, Soil Solarization and Resistant Species. Treatment approaches may include chemical, biological, cultural, and mechanical methods depending on the severity and context.