Fusarium Stalk Rot (fungus - Fusarium moniliforme): Like charcoal rot, Fusarium stalk rot usually develops on mature to nearly mature plants that have been subjected to some form of stress. Infection takes place at the base of the plant and produces discoloration in the stalk. When shredding of the vascular area occurs from this organism, black fungal bodies (sclerotia) are not present as they are with charcoal rot. Avoiding stress problems by proper use of cultural practices is the best approach to control.
