There are a number of fungi that can cause plants such as chrysanthemums, clematis, tomatoes and carnations to wilt and die rapidly, starting at the shoot tip or a leaf and spreading downwards towards the base.

Control

Good plant hygiene and garden husbandry will help prevent wilt, which affects weak and generally unhealthy plants. All wilted shoots should be cut back to healthy tissue - this may be below the soil surface. Feeding and watering after an attack often helps regeneration.