These spots enlarge rapidly and turn dark brown. If the spots entirely encircle the stem, the plants wilt and frequently die. All parts of the plants in diseased beds should be removed and burned at the end of the season. Spray with recommended fungicides. Keep leaves dry and space more widely.
Infected plants wilt slowly.
At first, only certain branches show wilting. Plant in disease-free soil or sterilize soil with steam. When only a few plants appear infected, remove these together with surrounding soil. Water as little as possible to obtain good growth. Cotton burs used for mulch in West Texas may carry the fungus and should be well composted.