The role of soil types on the relation between individual soil properties and Fusarium wilt expression in 'Gros Michel' bananas

Abstract

Aims This study looks whether the response of soil management (liming and nitrogen fertilization) on the incidence of Fusarium wilt (Foc Race 1) in Gros Michel banana (Musa AAA) is influenced by soil types. Methods The effect of inoculation with Foc Race 1 was studied in a factorial greenhouse trial with eight representative soil types of the Costa Rican banana region, two pH levels; and three levels of N-fertilization. After an 8-week period, plant biomass, leaf area, and a disease index were measured.Results There were significant effects of soil pH and N, and their interactions on disease expression. Low pH levels and high N-fertilization increased the disease expression. The response to changes in soil pH and N-fertilization differed considerably between the different soil types. Conclusions Although soil pH and N influence Fusarium wilt in banana, each soil type differs in its response to these soil properties. This complicates the development of standard soil management strategies in terms of e.g., N-fertilization and liming to mitigate or fight the disease.