Didymella Stem Rot – Didymella lycopersici

Didymella stem rot Common name Didymella stem rot Causal agent Didymella stem rot is a fungal disease caused by fungi belonging to the genus Boeremia Scientific name Didymella lycopersici Symptoms & Signs Dark brown, sunken lesion forms on the stem above the soil level. They girdle the stem, causing chlorosis and wilting of the plant. The stem lesions also contain fruiting bodies that produce spores. It also infects the fruits forming black, water-soaked lesions in concentric rings. Transmission The disease is commonly spread through splashing water and rain. 20°c (60°F) is the ideal temperature for the growth and spread of the fungus. Time of concern Common hosts Tomato Capsicum Potato Black nightshade