Vascular wilts

Definition

A disease of plants caused by soilborne bacteria that infect and clog the vascular system (xylem) of plants, leading to wilting, stunting, and death.

Etymology

From Latin 'vascular', meaning 'relating to vessels', and 'wilt', meaning 'to wither'.

Example

Tomato plants susceptible to vascular wilt often exhibit wilting leaves and brown stems.

Related Terms

• Bacteria
• Xylem
• Wilting

Usage Notes

Vascular wilts are caused by various bacteria, including *Ralstonia solanacearum*, which can affect a wide range of crops.