Verticillium Wilt in Virginia
HIGHFungus
Verticillium Wilt is currently active in Virginia. Watch your susceptible trees closely and act early.
About Verticillium Wilt
A soilborne fungal disease that affects hundreds of plant species including maples, elms, redbuds, and many other trees. The fungus invades through roots and colonizes the vascular system, blocking water transport. Symptoms often appear suddenly on individual branches. Maples are particularly susceptible. Olive-green to brown streaking in the sapwood is diagnostic.
Symptoms to watch for
Sudden wilting and dieback of individual branches or one side of tree, leaves may turn yellow then brown and curl, olive-green to dark brown streaking visible in sapwood when bark is peeled or branch is cut cross-section, symptoms may appear on scattered branches, entire tree may decline over one to several seasons
Trees at risk in Virginia
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Treatment options
Pruning and Fertilization
Prune dead branches and fertilize lightly with a balanced fertilizer to promote new growth and help the tree wall off infected vascular tissue. Some trees can recover if the infection is limited.
Soil Solarization and Resistant Species
For replanting, solarize soil or choose verticillium-resistant species. Avoid planting susceptible species in soil where verticillium-killed trees grew. Conifers, oaks, and willows are generally resistant.
Recommended Products & Tools
Helpful supplies for managing Verticillium Wilt. Always read and follow label directions, and confirm a diagnosis before treating.
Broad-spectrum protectant for many fungal leaf and bark diseases.
Preventive spray for needle cast, leaf spots, and blights.
Sharp, clean cuts to remove affected wood — a tree-care essential.
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Browse all Virginia arborists →Frequently asked questions
Is Verticillium Wilt in Virginia?
Verticillium Wilt is currently active in Virginia. Watch your susceptible trees closely and act early.
What does Verticillium Wilt look like?
Sudden wilting and dieback of individual branches or one side of tree, leaves may turn yellow then brown and curl, olive-green to dark brown streaking visible in sapwood when bark is peeled or branch is cut cross-section, symptoms may appear on scattered branches, entire tree may decline over one to several seasons
What trees does Verticillium Wilt affect in Virginia?
It affects Tulip Poplar, Sugar Maple, Red Maple, Japanese Maple, Eastern Redbud, American Elm. Susceptibility varies by species.
How do I treat Verticillium Wilt?
Options include: Pruning and Fertilization, Soil Solarization and Resistant Species. Confirm the diagnosis before treating, and consider a certified arborist for high-value trees.