Fusarium wilt in mungbean is an increasing threat for growers, especially in Queensland. It can cause big reductions in grain yield and is almost impossible to eradicate. Disease prevention is the best management strategy.

Key points

• Fusarium wilt most often affects mature mungbean plants after flowering.
• All commercial mungbean varieties are susceptible to the disease.
• The pathogens that cause Fusarium wilt produce resistant spore structures. They can survive in soils for many years.
• The disease caused around $4.8 million in mungbean crop losses in 2020-21.
• There are no fungicide options available to manage Fusarium wilt.
• Preventing disease is the best way to manage crops. Growers must keep their farms clean. They should avoid planting in paddocks with a history of infection. Choosing more resistant plant varieties is also important. Minimising stress on the crops is crucial for their health.