Beware of Sclerotium Fungus in Tomato Fields
If your tomato plants are suddenly wilting and collapsing, especially during flowering or fruiting, you might be dealing with Sclerotium fungus (Sclerotium rolfsii). This soil-borne fungus attacks the stem near the soil line, forming white fungal growth and small brown granules (sclerotia) around the base.
It spreads quickly in warm, moist soils—especially in poorly drained fields or where undecomposed compost is used. Once infected, the plant wilts and dies within days.
How to control it
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Treat soil before transplanting with Trichoderma and neem cake.
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Use raised beds to avoid water stagnation.
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Avoid overwatering and maintain good drainage.
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Remove and destroy infected plants as soon as seen.
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If necessary, drench base with Carbendazim or Tebuconazole (don’t mix with bioproducts).
Early care and a clean field can save your crop from this dangerous soil fungus.
