B-1022R

Verticillium wilt (VW) is one of the most damaging alfalfa diseases in temperate regions of the world. VW has been in Wyoming for over 19 years, and a 1989 study showed that Wyoming growers were losing approximately $2 million annually from VW’s presence in irrigated fields planted with susceptible varieties.

Verticillium Wilt of Alfalfa discusses the symptoms and management of VW. This four-page bulletin explains the disease’s cycle, fall management procedures, and plant resistant varieties. Symptoms, which include wilted plants scattered throughout the field, usually occur after periods of cool, rainy weather.

According to the authors, “Planting certified VW-resistant alfalfa varieties is the most important and least expensive management practice available.”